1) I did my best to make the dog bane rope, but I just don’t have the patience for it. It was too little and too fragile for me. Instead I made a hummingbird pendant out of abalone. It was hard because I didn’t know what to make before I made it into a hummingbird. That was pretty fun because the abalone has to speak to you with what it wants to become. In my case, a hummingbird. I also made a wansak which is a clapper stick made of elderberry. I thoroughly enjoy making those because because they’re not fragile and they’re quite simple to make. The only hard part about making them is what designs you want to put on it.
2) Everything resonated with me because they’re the teachings of my people. I love my uncles, aunties, and elders that are able to teach me these things. I’m very grateful these traditions are able to be passed down. So very grateful. I was home where I can learn everything best.
3) My favorite cultural experience was seeing my culture flourishing within other natives. I’m ecstatic and so grateful that we’re able to share these traditions. There aren’t words in the entire dictionary that could describe how grateful and happy I am about Humliwu (Hoo-mali-woo). The village of Malibu. I was able to spend time with my mom and my sister which I haven’t been able to do for more than a week. It was a most excellent and bodacious time. I love Wishtoyo, my family, my culture, Uncle Mati, Auntie Luhui, and all the elders. Thank you so much for all you’ve done.
nativeyouth2college.org 