I so agree.
I so agree.
I do feel very fortunate indeed. Whem we lived in Minnesota, we were in a suburb of expensive homes, and all our friends and neighbors were very similar. Since retiring to New Mexico I feel that our cultural life has gone from "dial up" to "broadband".
Ironically, I have been thrust into a position where I can add my small part to the preservation of the Jemez culture. The Jemez people have profited from wise leaders. They have a required "pre-school" where their children achieve competency in the language of the Jemz (Towa). It is an unwritten and private language. It is not to be taught to non-tribal members.
My part comes in when they get ready for formal schooling. The Jemez people have established a charter school on the grounds of the Pueblo. It is only an elementary school, but it gives the kids a chance to appreciate their culture before becoming immersed in the broader culture.
This decision necessarily reduces some economies of scale, and other difficulties for the local "public" school. As I have mentioned, I am a member of the school board, and was in fact elected president of the school board. There will always be forces who want minorities to assimilate, especially Indian minorities. But I am proud to say that our five member school board (which includes one anglo, one hispanic, and three Pueblo indians) have been unanimous in protecting the "charter" school. This has happened much to the chagrin of some of the "public school" administration. I am afraid there are some difficult battles down the road, but the excitement of life can be found in having something worth striving for. I will keep you posted.
