The Native American Church (NAC) Youth and Teesto Organized Youth (TOY) are
planning a four-day youth conference in Teesto, Arizona, Navajo (Dine')
Nation, USA. This conference is to be held in early August (before the
start of the new school year). Teesto is located approximately forty miles
north of Winslow, Arizona in northeastern Arizona.
In order to clarify the obscurity of history which has lead to indignity to
Dine' tradition, heritage, and culture, the NAC Youth and TOY wish to enrich
themselves with the truth by implementation of Traditional Dine' Philosophy
and Dine' accounts of history. With the help of medicine people, elders,
parents, and community members, "Dine'" will be defined and the honor of
"Dine'" will be enhanced by our efforts as a Indian Nation. Rooted in
strength, Dine' culture will give our children a sense of identity and
belonging which will be meaningful and relevant as they pursue their goals
on and off the reservation.
The youth of Teesto are asking for support from any and all who can give it.
They, like other American Indian and Alaskan Native children, are
experiencing a trying time in their lives due to the many demands put upon
them not only by Western society, but also by their traditional home
environments.
This four day conference is designed to present the traditional values and
beliefs of the Dine' people by the exchange of information between Dine'
elders and youth. The agenda will proceed following the four levels of
human growth and responsibility which are found in the realm of all Native
culture (Brendtro, L.K., Brokenleg, M., and Van Bockern, S. "Reclaiming
Youth At Risk, Our Hope for the Future." 1990, National Educational Service).
Day 1: Focus on the children and their spirit of BELONGING.
Day 2: Honor adolescence as a time of vision and MASTERY.
Day 3: INDEPENDENCE, as exemplified by adults, will be the focus.
Day 4: GENEROSITY will be the focus to honor our elders.
We are presently soliciting support from various organizations, departments,
and presenters. Your input and ideas are greatly welcomed and will be very
much obliged. Please respond if you have any information that may improve
our conference.
Thank you,
Evener Scott