Serving Indigenous Peoples and Our Friends Since 1981 Volume XXIX Number 6 Friday, April 20, 2012
FLC Student Government -
Tsabetsaye is New ASFLC President By Noel Altaha Here’s what new ASFLC President Byron Tsabetsaye had to say in a recent interview: What’s your Major: English (I plan to major in Student Affairs when I attend grad school). What’s your year: Currently a Junior Tribe(s): Navajo & Zuni Why politics? I wanted to learn more about my college and student government. I also wanted the opportunity to voice my thoughts and concerns especially because I represent many organizations and students on campus. I enjoy politics at a college level; I doubt I would pursue anything further. Involvement at FLC: ASFLC The National Society of Leadership and Success Native American Honor Society Leadership Programming Student Union Productions What does it mean for you to be a Navajo student representing ASFLC? I try [to] not let things like race become something that sets me apart from others. I feel like as students at FLC we are all on the same team! Don’t get me wrong, I am proud to be Native American and happy to represent my people in a leadership role. But I also represent all students on campus. What are your strengths and weaknesses or areas of improvement? First off, I am human. I am an achiever, learner, deliberator and competitor. I am a leader that knows his place amongst others while standings amongst others on the same level, just with more responsibility and trust. In a team, everyone has to contribute, not just the captain. How do you balance ASFLC and school and your personal life? As cliché as it may sound, I believe you have to work
Please See “ASFLC -” Page 8
Graduating Senior, Kitty Green, will be honored April 27th for her outstanding academic performance.
NAIS Graduating Seniors Win Awards By DJ Seeds The Native American and Indigenous Studies program is acknowledging outstanding seniors at the Junior/Senior Convocation! Kitty Green is the winner of the outstanding graduating senior award that recognizes the NAIS major graduating with the highest grade point average. Kitty is from Anchorage, Alaska and is also an accounting major. She stated that, “My main goal is to work with one of the Native corporations that focus on community-oriented programs. I really want to utilize my NAIS degree to benefit my community.” Trudy Thompson was the recipient of the enduring spirit award that recognizes individual perseverance and accomplishment in the pursuit of education. Trudy is from Tohatchi, New Mexico and is a proud member of the Dine people. Trudy intends on obtaining her Master’s degree from the University of Arizona following her graduation from Fort Lewis this spring. Trudy’s excitement regarding her award flourished as she reacted, “I have learned a whole lot about myself, my community, my global community,
The new ASFLC senators and officers are ready to begin their terms in FLC’s student government. this
inside issue Comments on Nike’s N7 IN Greetings to All!......... 2
James and Ernie are a Movement for comedy Wrath of Titans reviewed.....3 IN visits Herald....................4
my family, my friends, and my Professors! I have endured the best and worst yet maintained some form of grace, strength, and courage. Now, I have learned that perseverance is indeed a great quality to have when it comes to educating myself! Thank you Dr. Boxer, Dr. Wheelock, and the members of the NAIS board to whom I am so appreciative of all I have learned while at FLC. I am indeed honored!! I will take my award to be used as a tool to forward myself and to forward my Indigenous family, locally and globally.” All are welcomed to attend the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Junior/Senior Honors’ Convocation on Friday, April 27, 2012 in the Student Union Ballroom. The reception begins at 4 preceding the ceremony that begins at 4:30- 5:30. Come celebrate and support your fellow students in their academic excellence!
Trudy Thompson has earned the “Enduring Spirit” Award from NAIS for her impressive achievements.
Psych Conference.................5
Halan Du Bois at FLC..........7
Three FLC Women Move on ................................6
ASFLC President Movie ReviewMiss Hozhoni’s TKU...........8
April 20, 2012
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Intertribal News
IN Student Editorial The Intertribal News welcomes the comments of its readers. If you would like to express your opinions, please write us a letter. All letters must include the name and contact information of the author. Letters may be edited for length and journalistic concerns.
The Staff of the
Intertribal News Wishes You a
Safe, Productive Summer! After Thirty Years in Publication, we also hope FLC Students will watch for the chance to keep the News alive “To provide timely, accurate,
Nike’s unprecedented outreach to Native people is the subject of our student editorial this issue. Issues of corporate ethics and public service seem to overlap in today’s merchandising!
Nike’s ‘N7’ Foundation and Marketing Borrow Heavily from Indigenous Concepts By DJ Seeds If buying a new pair of kicks for the summer is on your agenda, consider many options including the Nike N7 foundation, but choose wisely! According to their webpage, niken7.com, the foundation, is committed to “inspiring and enabling participation in sport for Native American and Aboriginal youth to recognize their proud history and build on it for a triumphant future.” The N7 foundations’ philosophy is ‘Everybody Leaves a Footprint,’ posing the question for consumers: How will your footprint impact future generations? Additionally, the number seven in N7 reflects the seven generations concept of how our decisions now will affect the seventh generation as their website explains which is in direct correlation to the Haudenosaunee way of life. As you may recall, Nike’s reputation took a plummet in the late 1990’s as a result of slave wages, forced overtime, and arbitrary abuse according to Sharon Beder, who produced an article on the subject of Nike’s business behavior and conduct that was published in 2002 in the journal, The Ecologist. Additionally, Beder writes that, “Nike does not manufacture its own products. It only designs and markets them. About 550,000 workers are employed in 700 factories in 50 countries to make Nike products, the majority in Asia” Of course, Nike has the financial means to appeal to any accusations and restore their image with their mass, popular advertising. We as the consumers then are left to consider the idea of every Nike project being another corporate buy-off that appeals to a minority group. On the other hand, this could be an actual venture that has a select group of people’s interest at heart. Either way, consumers cannot be deceived by the expensive advertisement methods like those that Nike uses, including the superstars that model their product. This ‘influential’ foundation includes familiar faces in the sports’ world who serve as ambassadors for the product. A few noteworthy athletes are includ-
ed: St. Louis Rams’ quarterback Sam Bradford, WNBA Connecticut Sun guard Tahnee Robinson, long distance runner Alvina Begay, and the major league slugger Jacoby Ellsbury of the Boston Red Sox. Several other professional athletes have sported N7’s gear such as Amare Stoudemire of the New York Knicks, Levi Horn of the Chicago Bears, and Oklahoma City Thunder’s Kevin Durant. These sports’ figures appeal to the younger audience and market Nike product in a way that kids absolutely cannot resist. A brilliant strategy to overlook any ‘foul play’ by Nike as well as associating the shoe with the individual, “If I want to be a star athlete, I have to wear Nike gear,” becomes a necessity to aspiring young athletes. N7’s product reflects their ‘inspiring’ philosophy as it incorporates Native culture in their designs. According to niken7.com, “The N7 logo symbolizes the importance of circular shapes in Native tradition and culture. Triangles and zig-zag patterns are inspired by Native American and Aboriginal art that symbolize moving forward to accomplish dreams and goals.” Similarly, many of N7’s products including tshirts, hoodies, and shoes alike, feature the color turquoise and a sockliner step pattern that represents balance. Anticipate the release of the Nike N7 Zoom KDIV as part of the N7 Summer 2012 Collection debuted by Kevin Durant of the OKC Thunder, but proceed with caution as your ‘donations’ given to the foundation may very well go to the benefit of Native American and Aboriginal communities, but the intent behind the foundation may actually be fueling Nike’s corporate actions.
accountable information so the People can exercise their Sovereignty Knowledgeably!”
Request and Register for the courses that will emerge to publish the Intertribal News! Meanwhile, Good Luck as you Tend to your Final Exams and
HAPPY EARTHDAY TO YOU!
INTERTRIBAL NEWS
A FORT LEWIS COLLEGE STUDENT PUBLICATION
Editors Noel Altaha Zach Hooper
Ryan Desautel DJ Seeds Taryn Yuzos
Reporters Kyle Arnold Tina Billie Sharilyn Browning Lloyd Padilla Sunshine Perry
Now on the Webat: http://blogs.fortlewis.edu/intertribalnews/ Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rick Wheelock wheelock_r@fortlewis.edu The FLC Intertribal News is a publication of Fort Lewis College students. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Native American Center or of the College. The Intertribal News extends its special thanks to the John and Sophie Ottens Foundation, FLC Student Services, the Native American Center and the Department of SW Studies and American Indian Studies for their generous support. Any donation which would help us with our production costs is greatly appreciated!
April 20, 2012
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Intertribal News Film Review -
Wrath of the Titans Gets Mythic...
Native Entertainers - COMEDY -
James and Ernie Expand Native Humor By Sunshine Perry The popular Navajo comedians, James and Ernie made an appearance on Friday night at the Farmington Civic Center. Their show was in celebration of their 10-year anniversary. There were a few additional comedians that were featured including Tatanka Means, The Plateros, Natasha Johnson, Reggie Mitchell, Bronson Mitchell, Billy II, Adrianne Chalepah and Pax Harvey. All of the additional comedians and guests at the event are well-known and renowned Native Peoples. Tatanka Means is an actor, motivational speaker and stand-up comedian from Chinle, Arizona. Tatanka is from the Oglala Lakota Sioux Nation, Omaha and Navajo Nations. Pax Harvey is a Navajo Comedian and a Professional MC. Adrianne Chalepah is originally from Anadarko, Oklahoma and is a member of both the Kiowa and Apache Tribes. Chalepah began her career in entertainment while attending Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado where she double-majored in English Communications and American Indian Studies. Natasha Johnson is the main character in the Navajo based movie called “Turquoise Rose”. Reggie Mitchell and Bronson Mitchell are a father and son Jui Jit Zu fighting duo. The Plateros are a three piece family Blues, Rock, and Power Trio from Tohajiile, NM. Billy II is a member of the heavy metal group known as “Ethnic Degeneration”. Ernie Tsosie’s dad made an appearance at the show, along with Laguna Pueblo President, Roland Johnson.
Adrianne Chalepah, once a staff member of the Intertribal News, often offers comedy with J and E.
Each Comedian had their time to shine, but when they were all done, the crowd went wild to see James Junes and Ernie Tsosie taking the stage. James Junes has been doing comedy for 9 years. He took some time out to speak about his partner Ernie and just a few of the eventful things they have been through together. Next up was Ernie Tsosie, who is an award winning comedian and actor, born and raised on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona and has been a professional performer since 1996. Ernie and James came together as performing partners by accident, but have been making people laugh for 10 years now. The tickets were sold out by the time the show even began, and there were no parking spots anywhere in the designated areas. Needless to say, there was a full house or teepee as their humor suggests. James and Ernie had many jokes to tell and mixed the Navajo language with English with relative ease to convey to their audience. All of the comedians and guests repeatedly were thanking James and Ernie all night for their support and help in getting them to where they are today. Tatanka Means said, “Without them I wouldn’t be here”, “If James and Ernie had a baby… I would be that baby!” Billy II said, “They got my back, and I got their back.” The Plateros had said, “They helped me believe in myself, their good people.” James and Ernie have changed the lives of many people and undoubtedly made the people who attended their show Friday night, extremely happy. According to their home website, http://www.49laughscomedy.com/, it states that, “49 Laughs Comedy” is a comedy showcase with a positive message. “All comedians are also motivational speakers, and each has unique and powerful testimonies of survival. They are all survivors of domestic abuse, drug addiction, and alcoholism. They will share their powerful and personal stories of what it took to overcome negative behaviors that threatened their lives, and the lives of youth even today. They will speak with courage, compassion, and absolute honesty. They will uplift, empower, and motivate their audience to make positive changes in their own lives.” After running over their allotted time of three hours, they gave the audience a little piece of advice, “Laughter is healing,, its good medicine.” The 49 Laughs Show schedules of events can be viewed at
By Zach Hooper Remember the good ol’ days of clay animation with all the dinosaurs and monsters? Or the 1981’s Clash of the Titans, directed by Desmond Davis, with Harry Hamlin as Perseus and the terrifying Medusa? Thirty years later, the new Clash of the Titans (2010) replaces claymation, making the creatures more realistic through today’s incredible high-tech processes. The same can be said in the recently released Wrath of the Titans, directed by Jonathan Liebesman. The special effects may be good in this film, but the story has not improved. In Wrath of the Titans, Perseus (Sam Worthington) must save his powerful father Zeus (Liam Nelson) from the terrible titan Kronos, the cannibalistic and murderous father of Zeus. The film takes place after Perseus defeated the Kraken in Clash of the Titans. He retires from a life of glory to fish and raise his only son. But the peace did not last long, for his father, Zeus, was ambushed in the underworld by his hatful brother, Hades (Ralph Fiennes). Ultimately, Hades wanted to revive his dead father, Kronos, and free him from Tartarus. The majority of the story was Perseus searching for the legendary weapons of the gods and also to find the creator of such weapons, Hephaestus (Bill Nighy). In the end, both gods and men fought against Kronos and his army of darkness and fire. In general, this film was a mixed bag. The stunning graphics of Tartarus and the colossal battle with Kronos were worthwhile but the biggest downfall was in the plot. With a rating of only 23% by Rotten Tomatoes’ critics, the film greatly relied on the intense fighting scenes to make up for the plot. Interestingly, several key themes were similar to the gruesome 2011 Immortals directed by Tarsem Singhthat. The fight between Perseus and the Minotaur (half-bull-and-man) in the Tartarus labyrinth was one of them. The other was the emphasis on the divinity or power of the weapons that surpass the power of the gods. This could represent the power of science and technology over myth and legend. This film was a jumble of different stories from the Classical era which might explain the quality of the story. Although this theme of powerful weapons could be diverging from deus ex machina, or “god from the machine,” a theatrical reference to no matter how much trouble the hero is in, he or she will eventually be saved by divine interference or in this case divine weapons. All in all, if viewers like violence and seeing pretty women and men in armor, then Wrath of the Titans is right for you, which is still in theaters.
Not to worry! Composite mythic heroes always prevail in the genre that includes Titans.
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Intertribal News
April 20, 2012
Intertribal News Experiences Life of Durango Herald By Tina Billie Three members of the FLC Intertribal Newspaper visited the Durango Herald on Thursday, April 12th, where they obtained a behind the scenes look of the process of putting together elements of a widespread and successful newspaper. The visit began with students attending the daily 3:15 p.m. meeting of editors and head editor, Amy Maestas. Editors discussed which stories feature as a lead, considered noteworthy, or as a teaser, a side story, and selected which photos would accompany the stories, in the layout of the newspaper. Additionally, brief mention of details for each story was shared, and subjects were assigned to reporters by the copy editor. Students learned that in some ways, the process for readying the Herald newspaper is similar to the Intertribal Newspaper. This involves, everyone meeting deadlines for submission of pieces, articles are edited several times and suggestions for design pieces are made. When the final layout is completed, the compiled information is then uploaded and submitted online for viewing on either the Intertribal News, or the Durango Herald websites. (Both site links are included at the end of this article). Of course the Durango Herald offers the newspaper in print. Printing is done in Cortez and the paper sent out to surrounding areas and distributed. Interestingly, Carol Ann, started out as a receptionist at the Herald, and within six months she transitioned over to the Ad Sales Representative position. She has held this title at the newspaper going on twelve years. She explained how important to advertisement sales, in printed and online versions are to attracting businesses to subscribe and the revenue from this ultimately keeps the newspaper in business. Ann elaborated that realtors especially are the primary subscribers of ads. Speaking toward this relationship, Ann indicated there is a realtor profile segment entitled “Agent Spotlight” included in the Realtor paper. Ann elaborated about what designing ads for the newspaper entailed. She conveyed working closely with clients to improve on their ads. “I know what I would notice and what I skim over” she said, and emphasized how key aspects such as, color or no color at all, font size, and amount of content, each make for an uninteresting, or an eye-catching ad piece. In developing a trust relationship with clients Ann said, “this allows for an honest feedback exchange, and really the goal is for clients to get more bang for their buck.” Shane Benjamin also has been with the Herald for twelve years as a reporter. He started as a parttime FLC student intern at the newspaper in 1999. Two months after completing his internship he was hired full-time. Currently, he writes for the cops and court section of the Herald. Gathering information for the paper requires Benjamin visiting the court house daily, reviewing public records and court dockets, speaking with authority and judiciary officials, every so often in a court session. Benjamin conveyed about work related challenges, saying that people tend to “blame the messenger, because they don’t note the attribution or are upset over an outcome in a case that was reported on.” Furthermore, Benjamin related what he finds appealing about his job. He said, “I enjoy that every
Intertribal News reporter Sharilyn Browning gets some pointers from Carol Ann, the Herald’s director of advertising during the April 12 field trip.
The life of a reporter was one of the points to learn for the student writers of the Intertribal News. Emerging technologies and news economics were the other major learning topics for the visit. day is different, being involved in situations and circumstances I wouldn’t otherwise be involved in with another job, and in a way I fell what I do is a good deed by bringing the news to people.” Later the students met with Amy Maestas, who explained about interning at the newspaper. She conveyed that the internship lasted from three to six months, and an opportunity for those interested in reporting, web design, or other related areas of newspaper production. Applicants are required to submit a letter of interest, include writing samples, and that the potential candidate at the time of acceptance enrolled in a course oriented towards journalism/mass communication in order to be considered eligible. Maestas emphasized that local students are encouraged to apply as they would likely remain in the Colorado region and become employed with a fellow paper. The experience introduced students to the operation of a longstanding local paper that is both very informative and whose coverage is comprehensive. From the visit, students gleaned ideas for areas of development in in regards to the Intertribal Newspaper, and possible career choices. To review previous FLC Intertribal News issues click on the ling below. http://issuu.com/fortlewiscollegeintertribal/docs/3.23 .12complete/1
Herald reporter Shane Benjamin and news editor Amy Maestas offered advice to the IN news staff.
April 20, 2012
Intertribal News
Fort Lewis College Psychology student Noel Altaha with Rocky Mountain Psychological Association President, Dr. William Doughlas Woody. Students have oppurtunities to attend a number of conferences to meet with established scholars in their fields. Career oppurtunities abound.
Conference Provides Experience, Networks By Noel Altaha Presenting at any conference for any undergraduate student can be both exhilarating and exhausting; at least it has been my experience as I presented for the first time at the annual regional Rocky Mountain Psychological Association (RMPA) last week in Reno, Nevada. Below are some basic tips or suggestions from my experience. Please feel free to add, comment, or disagree based on your experience(s). Tip #1: Though it may seem obvious, try to remember your child’s spring break, winter break or any other amount of time he/she may need a sitter as you leave for your conference. If not, you will find yourself packing for two, paying for two, & praying the next 15 hours to the destination will go by quickly like me. Tip #2: If you are lucky to get reimbursed for your expenses, ALWAYS keep your original receipts. Perhaps in an envelope? I learned this the hard way, so keep everything in one place or you’ll be digging through the pockets of every pair of jeans you own. Tip #3: If it’s a long distance trip, plan ahead of time, not “Indian Time.” Find out if it’s cheaper to get a plane ticket vs. drive. See if you can carpool with other students from your college also attending the conference. You get the picture. Tip #4: If you do drive, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Oil change up-to-date, tail lights working properly, even if you dare take your “Rez Rocket” make sure it’s safe for you and your loved ones traveling. Along our trip our gas-guzzler needed an oil change, plan for unexpected expenses to pop up! Tip #5: Print your poster out ahead of time. I tried to print mine the day of departure and it cost $18.18 and guess how much was in my account? Yes, of course only $18.17. Tip #6: Get a good night’s sleep before the first day of conference. I, on the other hand, stayed up late watching Jim fall deeper for Pam while Michael became more idiotic in “The Office.” Remember that
sleep is important, especially if your first group lecture is with Dr. Richard Bootzin, (University of Arizona) a Psi Chi distinguished lecturer whose research is on sleep, and sleep deprivation. Tip #7: Engage and make eye contact with everyone. Especially if you’re alone; especially if you’re the only student from your college; especially if you’re the only Native American and it’s a diversity dialogue. Tip #8: Remain engaged and know that you are significant enough to have made it this far. I had the most delightful conversation with an extraordinary individual, Dr. James Jim W. Loewen, a Diversity speaker, sociologist and phenomenal writer (Lies my Teacher Told Me) He made my trip worth it, because he was engaging, inviting, and he challenged our thinking. He reminded me of why I want to be a psy-
Page 5 chology professor; even though he was a sociology professor his passion kept me engaged. His advice in searching for the perfect graduate program? “Be Happy; make sure in whatever you do in life you are happy.” Tip #9: Try to not stay with your own group. I noticed this with other students and even faculty/sponsors/professors through-out the conference. I hope that in your experiences you will force yourself to break away and meet new people. Meet as many as you can and use the social hours to reach out and conversate. You never know, these individuals have the potential to be your future employers, mentors, or connections to your graduate school program. Tip #10: Adhere to the dress code: If they have an outline for first-time presenters, read it ahead of time and plan accordingly. If you don’t and you need to dress business casual but your outfit looks “hippieish” because you’re from small-town Durango, not to worry. Just find the nearest Salvation Army thrift store and get slacks for $4.99. Tip #11: Don’t get wasted. Enjoy yourself but remain professional. My notes are from a lecture by the presenters but they seemed to gear this reminder towards the faculty. I can’t be sure though. Tip #12: During the poster sessions talk to other students in other areas of research. During my poster session I met the only other Native American student! He is a first-year doctoral student from Northern Arizona University (NAU), and a Hopi from Arizona. His educational path to success was inspirational. I could tell he was Native too because he brought his whole family and I got to meet his mom. He could tell I was Native because I brought my little one. This teasing broke the ice; why do native jokes always make you feel comfortable when you’re away from home? Tip #14: Take breaks during the sessions and remember to eat. Of course we typed “Panda Express” into our GPS and ate as much as we could stomach before we headed back to Durango and I think we still have left overs. Tip #15: Plan what events you would really like to attend as soon as you can. Highlight your booklet. Tip #16: Always have fun; this is what you make of it. Positive energy will create a successful conference. Those are just a few of my own tips and suggestions if you find yourself attending a conference for the first time. I hope you enjoyed this and hopefully you can add onto it with your own unique insights.
Poster presented by Noel Altaha on “Examining Historical Trauma in Current Native American College Students” for the Rocky Mountain Psychological Association conference in Reno, Nevada.
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Intertribal News
FLC Librarian Ruth Fleming, center, is moving from the College after working at Reed for years.
Three Influential FLC Women Move On By Sharilyn Browning Some great ladies are leaving FLC and its wonderful environment. They are: Ruth Fleming, Elayne Silversmith and Myra Brittan. These ladies are wonderful all in their own way by helping students in their college life and/or social life. Ruth Fleming grew up in New York. Fleming had worked as a librarian since 1996. She did not know that working in a library would suit her best. First she worked under road maintenance here in Durango with the department of transportation. She transferred her job career by starting work in the library in 1996, where she explained that you can get a library science certificate online. When she started working here at the Fort, she immediately fell in love with the environment. She loved the idea of getting to know the students and offered them help. Flemings explained that she enjoyed socializing and conversing with people. It was helping students what sustained her interest as a librarian. That was great experience which she explained she will miss the most. Even her co-workers had nothing but good things to say. Especially at her going-away party that her co-workers/friends threw for her on the 10th of April 2012 on the 2nd floor of the library. It was the day before she cleared her office that the party was thrown and she was sad and yet excited to move to her new job as a librarian at a public library in Payson Arizona with her husband Tim Fleming. She also explained that she needed to transfer her three cats: Tommy, Kitty and Alley, carefully to their new home without stressing them. The statement that Fleming wanted to leave for
Elayne Silversmith, long the librarian at the CSWS, will move to Washington, DC to become the librarian for the National Museum of the American Indian.
Fort Lewis’ College students is “don’t hesitate to ask for help. It makes our career a lot easier”… and also “don’t worry, librarians don’t bite.” She spoke of the students and her close friends very sincerely and although she is leaving the Fort, she explained that she will be back to visit and maybe enjoy a hike or two. She will miss it here dearly but is very excited to work with more students and make new friends. Another great student helper who will be leaving the Fort is Elayne Silversmith, who is a librarian and an Associate Professor in the Delaney Southwest Research Library located in the Center of Southwest Studies building (CSWS). Silversmith has always wanted to work with students. She explained how she wanted to become a Junior high teacher for quite some time but life, she claims, doesn’t always go according to plan. Although the mindset changed, Silversmith continued pursuing her higher education. She has attended tribal colleges, DQ University, University of New Mexico and was a Fort Lewis College student, graduating in 1987. She did of course need to take some time off from being hard worker so that she can be a homemaker and a mother to her only son. When Silversmith started working in the Center of Southwest Studies, it was located on the third floor of the library, where Program of Academic Advancement is located now. It was very small with no librarian or archivists. They needed their own collection of books and archives and basically the essential tools to help do research on Indigenous topics and issues in the SW, especially in the Four Corners area. She typically worked with just about every director in the CSWS, from Dwayne Smith to Andy Gulliford. When their new CSWS was built in 2002, the work was more hectic and stressful. However, it was a great job for Silversmith who couldn’t get enough. She had great interns who worked under her, with many still pursuing their dreams after leaving the Fort. She also worked with people who displayed their work in the CSWS exhibit or sought cultural and traditional knowledge that are presented in texts, photos, diaries or autobiographies. The most powerful exhibit for Silversmith was the Dooda Desert Rock: Coal Plant, which was art show protest against the third coal-fired plant in the Four Corner regions. Also the Earth + Circle of the Spirit: the Navajo & Tibetan Wisdom for Living and the Mountain Lion exhibition were also fascinating. Her passion for history will still follow her career path as she leaves the Fort because she will be work-
April 20, 2012 ing in Washington at the Smithsonian Museum. Just imagine the further experience she will obtain from this position! Silversmith spoke very fondly of FLC students and her intern students and she also stated that she will miss them all. She always shared her Native philosophy Nizhonigo Anileeh, meaning make it beautiful in the Navajo language, which she still wants to share with students. She suggest that life always runs into obstacles but life will not stop for you so that you make time to dust yourself off. She explained that we cannot let negative situations get the best of us and remember to live a happy life. Silversmith alsoadvises students to “take care of themselves and believe in yourself”… “Remember who you are and where you came from. Remember what made your heart truly happy.” Sixteen years of working with CSWS brought great experience and one of the things she said she will miss the most is Hozhoni Days. Since she is moving to the East coast, she claimed that she will miss “seeing real cowboys” ending it with a laugh. Elayne Silversmith has obtained knowledgeable experience and it’s no wonder that Smithsonian Institute recognizes her. Her involvement in Indigenous topics will continue and so she is not retiring, so don’t hesitate to wish her a safe trip and congratulations. A close friend of Silversmith who also works at the Fort is Myra Brittan. She is retiring from the Fort and surely the Native American Center will not be quite the same when she leave. She understood the situations students go through and especially offered an ear and shoulder to single moms who are striving to get a degree on their own. Brittan understood that it’s not always easy to be a student and that college life is stressful, which is one of the reasons why she started her Oops program (Ohhh Did I Goof-up, Options! What are my options, Problem Solving: Solution!!), that reaches out and supports students who need help with homework, financial advice, or even personal issues. She also created a separate Oops program on Fridays, which gears towards females. Since it’s finals week, I suggest going to the Native American Center and ask Myra for help, who is a terrific at it. Or just socialize with her when you have time. Also, Elayne Silversmith will be in her office at the Delaney library, which is also a great place to study for finals. Or head to the library, which usually are open late during finals and offer refreshments. Fort Lewis College and its students will sure miss these wonderful ladies who made college life easier with their great support. Their skilled work made work materials convenient and available daily. Thanks to these successful ladies that leave a warming impression in our community, school, and hearts.
Myra Britton has assisted students, faculty and staff for years as the Administrative Assistant at the Native American Center.
April 20, 2012
Halan Du Bois is a Sociology/Political Science major at FLC.
Descendent of WellKnown Author is FLC Student By Sharilyn Browning What does it take be a great writer, composer, activist, leader, or an artist? I think it is in the beauty of how people put their experience, knowledge and understanding of the different worldviews in our society into words that gain attention of the different ongoing situations that seems most dominant. No matter what the topic may be, society gets most of their information by reading texts, novels, essays, passages, sketches, bibliographies, journals, and even activist provide the most crucial information which leading governing bodies tend to hide. One of the most recognized successors in informing society of the major challenges that Western worldviews incorporate, is the work of William Edward Burghardt “W.E.B.” Du Bois (1868-1963), born in Massachusetts, was an American sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, editor and also was the first African American to receive a doctorate from Harvard. He is one of the cofounders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). W.E.B. D u Bois is also most famous for his text The Souls of Black Folk (1903), where in it Du Bois portrays the racial discriminating inflictions and racial inequality in our society. Okay now that you got a good input of W.E.B. Du Bois, let me introduce you to his great-great nephew Halan Antoine Thomas Du Bois who is originally from Waukegan, Illinois which is just north of Chicago. He is a current second year as a Fort Lewis College student and has a great inspiration to continue his education and of course as mentioning his great-great uncle—Halan Du Bois is motivated through his family bloodline and is familiar with W.E.B. Du Bois’ work. Halan Du Bois explained how Waukegan wasn’t that great of a place to grow up and affirmed that it is the 7th highest crime rate. So when his father transferred to a different military station in Colorado Springs sometime after he finished high school, the environment was inviting. He stated that he “didn’t have to check his colors, didn’t have to check the
Intertribal News alley ways—it’s a safe place.” He attended Pike’s Community College and figured it wasn’t the great place to attend. It was in Colorado Springs where his friend Wally Wallace suggested Durango, CO but did not mention Fort Lewis College but that didn’t stop him from checking out the place. Halan Du Bois arrived when Durango had a blizzard in 2009 that was at least 5 feet of snow on campus. But that was after Halan Du Bois took a year off after he graduated high school in 2006 and worked in the service industry which included multiple jobs that provided medial income, low pay and just the typical dead end jobs that the economy seems to take a slow effect on. He worked in a car wash, restaurants, McDonalds and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Plenty of moving around positions within a year, it would be challenging to have taken that road and struggle to put something on the table. The experience in life is what makes a person so unique and strong. Experience is what fashions oneself and through time if fashions individuality. His mindset was striking from this experience and he stated that it helped him to push himself further and also “to help those people still in those positions because there are people who don’t have the opportunity to got to school”… “There has to be help in someway to better their life like the way his life is better.” It’s his experience that made him resilient and motivated to be inspirational like a role-model—like how his greatgreat uncle was inspirational in his life. W.E.B. Du Bois once said that “if a true college should ever have one goal, it is not to earn ends meet but to know the end and aim of that life that meet nourishes.” His great-great nephew stated many of his quotes quite sincerely and he further included this one quote by suggesting that when seeking a education we need to comprehend when we do get an education “we need to have education that brings fulfillment to ourselves—and not just to assume its just to get a job.” However, the idea of this type of corrupt system only focuses on the economic growth rather than recognizing society’s needs and human values. Halan Du Bois explained how that year off was not beneficial so it wasn’t worth it. He found out how hard it is to make it in this world without having a certificate. This working society focuses too much on producing products.Society suggests we need that piece of paper in order to compete in a working society. So the implication is that we have to go to school in order to raise our social standing which this type of educational system created a social ladder of economic growth. Halan Du Bois further stated “although sometimes you don’t really learn anything, you still need that little piece of paper to prove to other people that you are good enough to work.” He also explained how his father also took part of history as he headed the protest in Haven where people were given cards through industrial education which was like a passport into getting a job. But the job these workers wanted was “70 or 80 miles away, so the protest was to inquire that jobs be created closer to home.” So Halan Du Bois has a good view on how society portrays education in a working society on an international economic spectrum. He also touched up on how this type of system has always
Page 7 been corrupt, especially those of color. He introduced W.E.B. Du Bois’ text The Souls of Black Folk and his theory on “double consciousness” where W.E.B. Du Bois it meant “always looking at one’s self through the eyes of others, of measuring one’s soul by the tape of a world that looks on in amused contempt and pity” and further includes that the notion is always a character with two identities: one American, and the other being of color, where he claimed “two warring ideals in one dark body.” Halan Du Bois touched up more on this subject in his English written rhetorical analysis of the matter. It was jus a typical English course assignment that he did not know would even be recognized. His paper entitled Nature v. Nurture he states that “Nurturists, or constructionists, believe that humanity is shaped and molded by outside influences like cultural and national narratives that tell us how to act in certain settings” and further concludes through Kimberly Power’s statement on about.com “Scientists have known for years that traits such as eye color and hair color are determined by specific genes encoded in each human cell. The Nature Theory takes things a step further to say that more abstract traits such as intelligence, personality, aggression, and sexual orientation are also encoded in an individual’s DNA.” So having knowledge on the dualities, one can examine how this type of system has created a barrier between the relationships with other communities. But society is socially arranged and the each individual idea on success is overlooked. This type of system generated an exclusion of human values and individual conscious is determined how worldviews portray you on economic scale. Halan Du Bois paper was recognized by his professor Wenburg who suggested that Halan Du Bois have the paper edited and be on a drawing competition that recognizes great student research arguments in the program called Call for Papers which is part of the Pennsylvania website which can be found through google search. This program created a site where different student’s researched papers on different subjects are available for other students to further their research by viewing this website. So its great how one can be so inspired and imply those motivating family members, role-models, or even professor’s knowledge of different worldviews can contribute to experiences that fashions oneself throughout life. Although people have experienced the worst from what consequences this type of system presents, its people like W.E.B. Du Bois who inspired Halan Du Bois to create their wisdom through experience. In hopes that that experience contributes to a higher cause and which creates great writers who through their knowledge and understanding of the different worldviews in our society put them into words that gain attention of the different ongoing situations that seems most dominant. The Du Bois’ motto is “strength through honor, honor through respect, respect trough integrity.” Halan Du Bois is hard working student with great motivation and inspiration in his heart which keeps him striving for a higher education. Although, Halan Du Bois just did a regular English assignment, it’s his role-model and experience that made him an inspirational writer.
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Intertribal News
April 20, 2012
ASFLC - New President’s Comments Continued from Page One hard for the things you want in life. Working hard often requires a lot of your time and energy. Balancing school with extra curricular activities can be a challenge. Time management is crucial. This coming year, I will devote all my time and energy into being student body president. I make time for the things I enjoy doing as well like: blogging, reading, baking, running & journaling. What are some highlights or areas of focus that you plan to work on for the upcoming year? I definitely want to create a positive image for ASFLC in addition to more exposure. Unfortunately many students on campus have negative or false perceptions of their student government. I want more students to understand the purpose and duties of their student government. I also want students to understand how they can benefit from their student government. We are not only here to represent students on campus but also to work with students. I also plan to highlight all of the opportunities on campus. How are you going to empower your table? I have already begun to recruit more people that I believe will be great assets to the senate table. I also am very happy with the senators who will continue to hold their positions at the table through the fall semester. They have shown dedication and are passionate about representing students at Fort Lewis. I’m excited to see the amazing things that our table will achieve [this] next academic year. I also believe my vice president, Lewis Wittry, is the best person for the job. He has shown exceptional work ethics and dedication in his time as a senator. As a team, we are going to be unstoppable!!! What does the Native American Tuition Waiver mean to you? The Native American Tuition Waiver means my
opportunity for an education. I think it’s safe to say that other Native American students on campus would agree. However, I know there are many students on campus that are not in favor of the Native American Tuition Waiver. They see it as something that is hurting their college or a “free ride” that is a result of them having to pay tuition that continuously increases. The Native American Tuition Waiver is something that we all benefit from and is seriously legitimate. Quick word with one ASFLC Student Senator’s Perspective: Name: Jessica Martinez What is your major? Psychology What is your year in school: Senior How long have you been a senator? I have been a senator for a year and a half. What are your thoughts for this upcoming year? I am very excited about the upcoming year. What do you look forward to as you work with/under the new ASFLC president? I feel that Byron will be a superb new president. Byron is involved all over campus. Personally, I think next year will be busy because Byron will probably have us involved in a million things, which is fantastic. Being involved and active around campus is our job as student senators and representatives of Fort Lewis College. Having the opportunity to work directly with Byron this year has been a great experience for me. It is my hope that having another Native American being president will help to restore Senate’s image around campus. Although many people do not know the whole story about Alray they have horribly negative connotations about Senate and the way it runs. I have high hopes and expectations for Byron and Lewis; there is no doubt in my mind that they will not only meet but will exceed any expectations I might have for them.
Thanks to all those who helped me in the Miss Hozhoni Pageant and with the Powwow! I enjoyed the chance to meet so many people who appreciate the tradtions of our Nations and who are willing to work hard to keep our Peoples strong. I look forward to a great year of service as Miss Hozhoni and will keep all your good wishes in my heart. Let’s all strive to build upon the good will we all experienced during Hozhoni Days. I cannot wait to visit tribes and communities around the area and extend those good spirits to all. -With great Love, Sunshine Woman With Two Lives Perry
Film: A Familiar Fantasy By Taryn Yuzos Let’s travel to a land where the people are always singing and dancing; apparently working was not a must back then! Mirror, Mirror is meant for the entire family. It is a version of the original Snow White film from Walt Disney, with a modern twist. Enter a world of fantasy where evil is in the face of none other than Julia Roberts. Playing the role of a queen who wants to be rich and the fairest of them all, she makes the role her own and her beautiful step daughter played by Lily Collins is trapped by the wicked queen. It has the basic plot of the original film by Disney, but throws the audience with minor differences in the plot. “This film was fun and interesting in the way they perceived the original Snow White we all know,” said Antoinette A., after watching the film. The movie follows the life of Snow a young princess whose father has been missing for years and left in the care of her evil stepmother. She is forbidden to leave her tower let alone the castle, but when goaded into it by the slaves she wanders past the castle walls to her kingdom and finds startling news. They are poor and people are no longer singing and dancing. Taxes placed by the queen to keep up her lavish lifestyle, have drained the town of money and the peasants are finding it harder to live. With this sight Snow is troubled and seeks help from a visiting prince, whom the queen has eyes on to marry. Recognizing the sudden spark between the two the queen orders for Snow to be killed, but she survives and lives with seven dwarves? No, more like seven rebels, outcasts. The seven steal from the people and passer byers to maintain themselves. After meeting Snow they realize that maybe stealing isn’t the best way to make an honest living. These men teach her how to be independent and strong to handle herself. She learns to fight, keep her eyes open, balance, sneak, how to be a bandit. They become a robin hood-esque story stealing from the queen to give back to the people, all the while evil is lurking in the forest. The queen is in control of the BEAST that lurks in the woods, it obeys her every word, but why? The queen’s magic mirror possesses powers that, like all actions, have consequences. Young Snow and her handsome prince cannot be kept apart by the queen’s spells they find each other again. True love’s kiss breaks the prince from the evil queen, incorporating yet another classic Disney film, “Sleeping Beauty”. She saves her prince and now must save herself from the monster that wants her dead at the queen’s bidding. A showdown in the woods between the beast and Snow, dwarves, and prince, the princess saves the day. The beast is a spell on the once great King, her father! At the end of the day Snow White is no damsel in distress as portrayed by Disney, no she is a girl that fights for everything she loves, and the queen you ask? Offers a tribute of a red, delicious apple to the beautiful princess…