By Ian Gutierrez
The beating of a drum attracted a large crowd in front of COC’s Intercultural Center in Honor of Native American History Month.
This event was created by the college’s Native American Indigenous Alliance to educate staff and students about the diverse culture.
“Today, we’re featuring the Wildhorse Native American Association,” said event organizer Laurie Solis.
“They’re Dine’ ancestry, Navajo, and they’re going to be putting on traditional native dancing and giving away free Fry Bread.”
Those in attendance witnessed many sacred dances, including the Jingle Dress Dance, which brings healing to people.
The Fancy Shawl Dance which expresses transition and evolution.
The Hoop Dance which represents the circle of life, and the Fancy Dance, a fast-paced dance that represents the horse spirit.
Not just dancing, the event offered the chance to taste traditional native food as well.
“There’s gonna be honey and powdered sugar to make it like a combo,” said Fabain, a cook at the exhibition. “But if they wanna taste a normal frybread, they’ll be able to.”
This event could not have been possible without the passion of one of the organizers, COC professor Michael Felix, for promoting multiculturalism.
“Part of my role was to create a program and provide events that demonstrate the culture, and celebrate the culture,” said Felix.
A goal that he seemed to have accomplished when speaking to students who attended the event.
“I love seeing people of different cultures,” said COC student Maetzy Torres. “Getting the opportunity to share in an experience like this, it’s really valuable.”
