Tribal Elders share experiences with WSC Students
Posted: Dec 05 2022
WILLISTON N.D.- Recently, a group of tribal elders shared their experiences with Williston State College students.
Organized by WSC student Chayla Jewel Russell, with the help of three tribal elders, Cody Man Eagle, Brett Antiwone, and Amanda Boyd, each discussed with the students the importance of different tribes, their experiences, and sharing cultural traditions.
Each tribal elder shared experiences growing up on the reservation and the challenges each faced, along with the culture of their tribe. For example, Brett Antiwone, of the Turtle Mountain of Chippewa, from Trenton, ND, shared with students about the cultural significance of such things as a Little Boy Drum, after which he sang a traditional prayer song.
One significant aspect of the evening that each speaker shared was the generational trauma of being Native American and living on the reservation. They discussed issues with addiction, sexual assault, and how they can band together, by sharing their culture and helping to keep traditions alive.
“We need to come together and be one race, the human race. We need to learn from each other so we can live together in this land,” said Cody Man Eagle.
“I am proud of Jewel for organizing this event. She brought cultures together who may not have had the opportunity before. She really showed leadership skills and showed the importance of her Indigenous culture and other’s culture through this event,” explained Professor of Communication and Diversity Club Advisor, Kim Weismann.
If interested in Diversity Club and telling your story, or if you know someone whose story should be heard, please contact Weismann 701.774.4503 or kim.weismann@willistonstate.edu.
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