A Young Hupa Woman’s Statement in Support of Our Ceremony

April 19, 2012 / by admin / Make A Comment / Filed under Uncategorized

In Northern California, neighboring tribes have long had close relationships, and we have many friends and extended Winnemem family members who are Hoopa Valley tribal members. They are the tribe over the mountains to the West of us.

One young Hupa woman, Kayla Brown, who has grown up around the Winnemem Way wrote this beautiful piece about her support of a river closure for our upcoming Coming of Age Ceremony. Thank you Kayla!

I was raised with balance and encouragement and as a Native woman: to stand up for what is right. For as long as I’ve known, my heart has always been with the Winnemem Wintu People. And seeing them struggle tears my heart apart.

Native Americans throughout Northern California believe traditional knowledge comes from those of sacred places, and it is our way of knowing that stuff is more than just words. We are exactly who we are meant to be. We don’t put on regalia for a show. It’s who we are and what we believe in. The Creator put us on this Earth for a purpose, in Indian Country woman are considered the care givers of our future generation teaching respectfulness, and basic life skills. It is important for mother’s to teach this at a young age. Women are the backbone and the carriers of traditions. I say listen, honor, and respect women.