Walking Between Two Worlds:
Patricia's Story

Patricia shares how she has overcome fears and hardships by embracing and sharing her Native American heritage. Her story is one of pride, resilience, courage and determination.
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Note:  The powwow dancers and family footage, and music, in this video are from tribes other than Patricia’s.  Each tribe’s powwow is unique, as is each dancer and their regalia.
Note:  For older students.  Suicide is a topic in this video and the teacher should be prepared to discuss this topic and be aware of local resources for suicide prevention.

There is great diversity in language, culture, histories and governments among American Indian tribes.  Each tribe has a distinct and unique heritage that contributes to the vitality and diversity of modern life.

Discussion and Writing Questions

  1. What is most important to Patricia?
  2. How does Patricia feel about her Native American and tribal heritage?
  3. How does she participate in and share her culture?
  4. Do you participate in activities that reflect your family’s heritage? Discuss.
  5. What has Patricia had to overcome in order to practice and share her heritage?
  6. Where does Patricia find support for her beliefs and practices?
  7. Where do you find support in your life?
  8. What hardships and problems has Patricia shared about life on her reservation?
  9. How is Patricia trying to help address these problems?
  10. Are any of Patricia’s beliefs similar to your own? Discuss.
  11. What is a mentor?
  12. Have you ever had a mentor or been a mentor for someone else? Discuss.
  13. How is Patricia a role model for others either on or off her reservation?
  14. What did Patricia’s Story teach you about life on her reservation?

For Older Students

There are many well and little known contemporary Native American mentors who serve as role models in their homes and communities and in fields such as science, education, art, politics, health and civil rights. Research American Indian role models and select one to share with your class. Females should choose a male to write about and males should choose a female. Discuss who your role model is, how they contribute to society, and why they should be respected.

Inside This Chapter
Reservation Life Introduction
Then and Now
Walking in Two Worlds
Standing Rock Controversy
Artist's Statement
Poet's Statement
Interpretation Strategies
Additional Chapters
Reservation Life Introduction
Mother Earth Introduction
Reclaiming Culture Introduction
External Sites, Readings and Videos

New Video: Watch the new Walking Together series, five short videos introduced by Peter Coyote.

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