Video Voices

This series of videos explores the challenges of walking together and also between two worlds, the Native American and the non-Native, both on and off the reservation. American Indian youth share how growing up Native has taught them to respect and draw from their culture as they prepare for the future. These are stories of emotional strength, loss, purpose and pride.
* Important note: please scroll down.

 

Urban Native Life

Walking Together:
Urban Native Life

The Young family shares their thoughts about why it is important to include American Indian perspectives when teaching history. Native American people are often written about in history books as if they no longer exist or were enemies of the United States
Family and Heritage

Walking Together:
Family and Heritage

The Young family shares their family heritage, history and experiences living in an urban community. Most Native Americans live off of reservations, so it can be challenging to maintain cultural practices. Ways of life vary from family to family.
Culture and Community

Walking Together:
Culture and Community

The Young family talks about powwows, their dancing and the importance of urban community cultural centers.  Native Americans have been gathering for cultural and community renewal for thousands of years.
Walking Together:<br>Resilience

Walking Together:
Resilience

Natural disasters are destructive and disruptive. When a huge wildfire destroys something of strong personal value to the Young family, they respond in a way that brings learning and healing from the ashes.
Life During the Pandemic

Walking Together:
Life During the Pandemic

Life for Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed. The Young family talks about their struggles, experiences and how they adapted.
Native Pride and Life

Walking Between Two Worlds: Tiyapo's Story
Native Pride and Life

Tiyapo shares strong feelings of Native pride and details of his life on the Nez Perce Reservation.
healing-religion-and-racism

Walking Between Two Worlds: Tiyapo's Story
Healing,Religion and Racism

Tiyapo shares a spiritual ceremony he and his family participate in that helps heal and strengthen their community. We also hear Tiyapo’s thoughts on racism that he encounters off the reservation.
Preparing for the Future

Walking Between Two Worlds: Tiyapo's Story
Preparing for the Future

Tiyapo discusses his plans for the future and lessons he has learned from family and teachers in his community.
loss-of-family-frame.

Walking Between Two Worlds: Tiyapo's Story
Loss of Family

Tiyapo talks about the loss of his grandfather and his thoughts on dealing with the death of a loved one.
Walking Between Two Worlds Video Series: Patricia's Story

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.

 

Important note: In these videos, multiple terms are used to identify the first people of this continent. “American Indian,” “Native American,” “Native,” “Indigenous” and so forth are used interchangeably. We do this for inclusivity purposes as there is no “one correct” term. Individuals may prefer something different and it is important to ask what they prefer when referencing them. Educators are encouraged to be tribal specific when possible.