Re-imagining Native Education by Asia Gellein
Native education means learning about traditions and values, leadership skills, and the importance of being a part of a community. Learning about these things would strengthen my confidence not only as a student but as a part of society.
As a First Nations student in a Native focused high school, I would like to learn about Native history and food, as well as traditional stories and songs. I would feel comfortable learning with cultural electives that would focus on tribal art, sacred sites, and treaties.
I would like to learn about the Trail of Tears and other expulsions such as The Indian Wars and tribal journeys. Also, Indigenous film studies and patterns of White discrimination.
I would prefer a Native focused high school because I do not want to feel isolated. I would love to see peers that have similarities with me that also know what it’s like to be a Native student. We could have clubs and shared blessings for every meal.
I’d like to have emphasis on cooperation instead of competition. Native history of sports and other extracurriculars that have been Europeanized would also be great. Culturally competent educators would know how to inspire the students, respect their backgrounds, and support their learning differences.
By Asia Gellein (Cherokee) 11th Grade student
Cover photo by Cante Remle (Lakota/Pauite)
*Re-Imaging education is a project of the Seattle Clear Sky Native Youth council. The project worked with Native youth to re-think how education for Native youth could look like, adapt them with critical thinking skills, photo journalism skills and journalism skills. In partnership with Last Real Indians, we will be running a series on essays the youth wrote, edited and took photographs for.
Read other articles in this series:
Re Imagining Education: Bring Native Culture back into Native Education
