NICO MONETTI | guest writer

Students recieve a chance to weave through something other than traffic.

In observation of Native American history month, Colleta Cole and her APU alumna twin sister Emma visited to share with students their cultural pastime of basket weaving, while opening dialogue about local Native American culture, history and politics.

Upon arrival, the happy hosts issued students strands of a pliable, rugged, twine-like material that were used to make miniature baskets.

For two hours, students sat in Trinity lounge weaving strings into tangible testaments of Native American culture. The Cole sisters entertained the crowd with songs, stories and fresh political insights as the baskets slowly but surely took form.

“It was really interesting to hear all of the issues and problems that Native Americans face daily. It’s so sad how Native Americans are being overlooked,” junior social work major Helen Nazarian said.

Colleta and Emma are among more than 2,700 registered members of the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, a tribe that is concentrated in Orange County.

Colleta Cole shared about the web of politics her tribe is facing in their quest to maintain federal recognition.

Being a federally recognized tribe carries with it many benefits, like being awarded financial grants and rights to any discovered bones or artifacts that can be traced back to their tribe.

Unfortunately, it also limits their tribe’s ability to maintain their independence.

The Juaneno Band of Mission Indians was officially recognized by the state of California, but their enduring political struggle to maintain federal recognition has been unsuccessful.

Discussion surrounding the controversial issue of the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory act, which allows certain Native American tribes to legally run casinos, also took up much of the discussion time.

The current law gives approved, federally registered tribes the legal authorization to run gambling establishments. Opponents to this act feel it is unfair to give Native Americans the select right to run businesses that are illegal for anyone else to run.

“I would challenge people to maybe take a different look at Indian Gaming and to be educated on political issues surrounding Native Americans,” Cole said.

According to the Office of Institutional Research, there are currently 44 Native American students contributing to APUs diverse student body.

When asked how APU students could raise their awareness of Native American culture Cole responded, “I would challenge people to find out what current Native Americans live like. We’re still pretty close-knit communities even though we live in these modern societies.”

Students left Trinity lounge Tuesday night not only with a new basket, but also with a renewed appreciation for Native American culture.