Bringing indigenous culture alive

Native American students are trying to start a club, First Nations, honoring their culture and heritage

By Priscilla Castro
The Collegian

A group working toward on campus recognition made its existence known during the gathering of Native American tribes.

This weekend a Powwow was held on campus on the lawn. Held on the lawn near the Satellite Student Union, the events featured dancing, as well as booths for food, jewelry and arts and crafts.

The First Nations American Indian Student Organization was one of the featured booths.

First Nations is working to become a club on campus next semester. Their goal will be to recognize Native American culture. Hector Cerda, secretary of First Nations said there are 176 students at Fresno State who declare themselves to be Native Americans.

By organizing a Native American group on campus, Cerda said their presence will be more apparent.

“One thing that hasn’t changed is that there are native students on campus,” he said.

“My goal is to have an understanding and respect for native culture,” First Nations President Mockalee McDonald said.

The club has recently finished their constitution. The group's goal is to submit their paperwork by the end of the week, they said they hopefully will be recognized as a club for the new school year.

Cerda said there was a Native American student organization on campus many years ago, but it seemed to have diminished. Cerda said next year’s club will hopefully be more involved with future powwows.

“Powwow has a family atmosphere with lots of native people,” he said. “Powwow is a way to teach children to respect their culture.”

To come in strong next semester, the club plans on staying in contact throughout the summer.

“I would like to expose people on this campus to native culture,” Cerda said.

McDonald said they have a mailing list right now of about 30 members.

“We are looking for members who want to join everyday,” she said.

Those interested in joining First Nations can contact McDonald at [email protected].

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