In a commendable initiative, a group of Native American high school students residing in an urban setting have launched a dynamic website designed to serve as both an educational resource for the wider public and a valuable tool for Native American communities within the Valley, with a particular focus on assisting parents. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Native American Youth Council of North High, showcases the students’ dedication to preserving and sharing their cultural heritage.
The website, accessible at www.northhighnatives.com, was officially launched in October at North High, a school within the Phoenix Union High School District. The site functions as an interactive platform, providing information about the council’s diverse activities. Visitors can find updates on community initiatives such as fry bread sales, fundraising car washes, and announcements regarding local events, including powwows and Native American parades held in Phoenix. This readily available information helps connect the community and promotes participation in culturally significant gatherings.
One of the most fascinating features of the Students launch Web site to lend insight about Native Americans is the inclusion of a "numbers system" presented in various Native American languages. The website showcases the unique numerical systems of the Western Apache, Salt River-Maricopa, Cherokee, Navajo, and Ojibwe tribes. This linguistic component offers a glimpse into the diversity of Native American languages and highlights the importance of preserving these cultural treasures. By presenting the numbers system, the site underscores that these languages are not merely historical artifacts but living, evolving forms of communication. This section provides an invaluable resource for language learners and anyone interested in the richness of Native American linguistic traditions.
Furthermore, the website features an "indigenous geography" section dedicated to the Phoenix area. This section details the locations of ancient settlements of the Hohokam peoples, an ancient civilization that flourished in the Gila River Valley from approximately 350 B.C. to A.D. 1450. The Hohokam were renowned for their sophisticated irrigation systems, which transformed the arid landscape into fertile agricultural land. By mapping these ancient settlements, the website offers a tangible connection to the past and emphasizes the deep historical roots of Native American presence in the region. This geographical component helps visitors understand the historical significance of the land they inhabit and appreciate the ingenuity of the Hohokam people.
Brian Bex, a Navajo senior at North High and the webmaster of the youth council’s site, articulated the vision behind the project. "I believe this project will allow more people to gain an understanding of the importance of the land they walk upon each and every day here in the Valley," he stated. His words capture the essence of the website’s mission: to foster a deeper appreciation for the history and cultural significance of the land among both Native American and non-Native American communities. Brian’s perspective underscores the importance of acknowledging the ancestral ties of Native American peoples to the land and promoting a greater understanding of their enduring connection to the environment.
April Manywhisker, the vice president of North High’s youth council, voiced her concern regarding the lack of awareness about Native American tribes. She expressed incredulity at how many people mistakenly believe that all tribes are the same, overlooking the distinct cultures, languages, and spiritual practices that characterize each individual tribe. April’s observation highlights a prevalent issue: the homogenization of Native American cultures in the public perception. She emphasizes the crucial need to recognize and celebrate the diversity of Native American tribes, each with its own unique history, traditions, and identity.
The Students launch Web site to lend insight about Native Americans plans to expand its scope to include information about all 500-plus federally recognized tribes in the United States. This ambitious goal reflects the website’s commitment to providing a comprehensive resource for learning about Native American cultures. The site aims to list contact information for each tribe, facilitating communication and collaboration. In addition, the website will serve as a valuable resource for high school students and their parents by providing information about tribal scholarships, thereby supporting educational opportunities within Native American communities. This focus on scholarships underscores the website’s dedication to empowering Native American youth and promoting their academic success.
Cody Johnson, a junior at North High and an aspiring fashion designer belonging to the Tohono O’odham Nation, has plans to enrich the website with multimedia content. He envisions incorporating videos in which students speak their native languages, adding a dynamic and engaging dimension to the site. Cody’s project aims to preserve and promote Native American languages by showcasing their contemporary use. By featuring students speaking their ancestral tongues, the website would provide a platform for language revitalization and cultural expression. This multimedia component would enhance the website’s appeal and further its mission of educating and engaging visitors.
The launch of this website represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between Native American communities and the wider public. By providing a platform for education, cultural exchange, and community engagement, the students of North High’s Native American Youth Council are making a valuable contribution to the preservation and promotion of Native American heritage.
The project, Students launch Web site to lend insight about Native Americans, is more than just a website; it’s a testament to the dedication and passion of these students. It’s a digital space where cultural pride meets technological innovation, creating a powerful tool for education and community building.
The website serves as a reminder of the importance of amplifying Native American voices and perspectives. By providing a platform for Native American students to share their knowledge and experiences, the site empowers them to become cultural ambassadors and advocates for their communities. The Students launch Web site to lend insight about Native Americans is a model for other schools and organizations seeking to promote cultural understanding and inclusivity.
The initiative underscores the vital role that young people can play in shaping the future of their communities. By taking ownership of their cultural heritage and utilizing technology to share it with the world, these students are demonstrating the power of youth activism and cultural preservation.
The author of the original article, Betty Reid, can be reached at betty.reid@arizonarepublic.com. Further information can be found at www.ArizonaRepublic.com or by telephone at (602) 444-8049.