Elder wisdom and youth power emphasized at conference
Nick Youman, left, and Carlos Geisdorff sing as they play a hand game during the California Indian Conference and Gathering at UC Davis in October. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis photo)
As incoming Native American graduate students to the Department of Native American Studies, we were excited to participate in the 22nd annual California Indian Conference and Gathering Oct. 26-27.
The conference and gathering was UC Davis’ opportunity for faculty, students and community members to engage the local Native American communities, listen to concerns and identify ways that the university and Native American studies department can work collaboratively with these groups.
In addition, this was a forum for Native American voices to raise their concerns, in native ways.
Ultimately, this was a time of sharing and socializing between California Indian people, a time to visit with old friends and meet new allies.
A participant at the conference wears a T-shirt promoting UC Davis’ powwow, which will take place next spring. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis photo)
Since we are from Oregon and many of California Indians’ issues and types of knowledge are new to us, we were thankful for the opportunity to engage with and learn from our southern neighbors.
Many hours of hard work and individual effort went into this important event. Contemporary issues were raised and discussed, including concerns about cultural preservation, Native American health and the repatriation of our ancestors.
Much of the conference was geared toward identifying problems and, in some cases, articulating possible solutions.
Elder wisdom and youth power
A moving part of this event for us was the various elder circles and the Youth Pathways Conference, a component of the main conference specifically geared toward California Native American youth. These two activities acknowledged the wisdom of our elders and the power of our youth.
Participants had the opportunity to sit in various elder circles throughout the conference. These circles were established to provide space for the elders to speak on any issues.
As Native Americans, we value and honor the views of our elders. We need to be able to hear the voices of the elders who come from this land and have been charged with its care since time immemorial.
Our elders provide valuable understanding about the relationship between our traditional lands and their people and the accompanying responsibilities.
More than 50 youth
Youth Pathways attracted more than 50 youth. This part of the conference was focused on empowering Native American youths to continue their education.
A presentation was given to the parents about culturally relevant academic camps, which could be a tool that provides California Indian youth an easier transition into college and vocational training programs after high school. This is particularly important because of the lack of recruitment and low retention rates of Native American youth for the university.
Calvin Hedrick, left, and Nick Youman demonstrate the hand game in the courtyard of Hart Hall. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis photo)
American Indians and Alaska Natives represent only 207 of the 29,796 students who enrolled in UC Davis this past fall.
Stickball and lacrosse
Traditional games such as stickball (which has similarities to California Indian games) and lacrosse were demonstrated at the youth conference.
Social events during the weekend displayed the community atmosphere. These included a film festival featuring Native American directors, an art show at the Gorman Museum showcasing beautiful California Indian baskets and a closing dinner sponsored by the Rumsey Band of Wintun with performances by traditional California dancers.
In these ways, California Indians had the opportunity to share their distinct cultures with many native and non-native participants. The community at large was honored with traditional singing, games, dances, and stories of California Indian culture and struggle.