[acb-hsp] E.L.D.E.R.S: Article

[J.Rayl]

This sounds like an intriguing program.

E.L.D.E.R.S. Gathering for Native American Youth: Continuing

Native American Traditions and Curbing Substance Abuse in

Native American Youth.

by Warren Skye

E.L.D.E.R.S. Gathering for Native American youth: continuing Native American traditions

and curbing substance abuse in Native

 American youth describes the efforts of

Native American Elders, traditionalists, and non-native

 volunteers interested in preserving the culture and traditions of the Haudenosaunee

(People of the Longhouse), also known as the Iroquois. This event is held every summer

at the Ganondagan Historical site located near Victor, in upstate New York. The purpose

of this week long gathering is to bring together

Native

 American youth who are interested in learning more about their traditional ways

with Native

 American Elders who practice these traditions. Much of the program's efforts focus

on developing the "good mind" of the youth participants so that the youth and Elders

are more likely to refrain from substance abuse. Youth participants begin to learn

how to incorporate traditional values and beliefs into their lives while also developing

leadership skills for use when each returns to their home environment hence, the

acronym E.L.D.E.R.S. (Encouraging Leaders Dedicated to Enriching Respect and Spirituality).

Many participants make the annual visit from reservations and urban areas in the

New York state area while some have come from as far away as California. In addition

to describing this program, a literature review that highlights some of the issues

facing

Native

 American youth in contemporary society accompanies this report. Insight and suggestions

for developing similar

programs are presented as well.

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to present the on-going efforts of several concerned

individuals and community leaders who, with corporate connections and support from

Native

 American businesses and volunteers, have taken the initiative to organize a week

long camping event for

Native American youth. This event is held annually at the Ganondagan Native

 American historical site in upstate New York near Victor, Ontario County. At issue

is the acknowledgment that many indigenous youth are growing up having never been

exposed to the beliefs of their ancestors and that coming into adolescence with increased

experience and knowledge of their culture may help in the self identity process.

This self identity process is thought to aid them as they make their way living in

"two worlds"; the world of their heritage and the world of the dominant society.

Originators of the camp believe that a lack of exposure to traditional beliefs and

values as they face the challenges of growing up in two cultures might contribute

significantly to the increase of substance use and abuse and that a decline in healthy

living practices can also lead to such conditions as obesity related diabetes.

At it's inception, the camp was originally intended to serve as a support for Native

 American adolescents who are interested in learning and retaining more of their

cultural heritage. The program for the camp is designed so that the youth are provided

with ample opportunity to network with other

Native

 youth who face similar issues and challenges of identity development in contemporary

society. A serendipitous outcome is that while the initial program was intended to

be one of cultural discovery, it has evolved into a program that increasingly addresses

matters of substance abuse prevention in

Native youth based on an increased understanding of the indigenous culture.

Participants learn some of the traditional practices and values of their ancestors

from Haudenosaunee elders and from youth who are more culturally aware. As the program

has evolved, the youth who attend this event annually report that they have made

conscious efforts to refrain from substances and to modify their lifestyle. Recently,

due to the increased level of diabetes within many

Native

 American communities, dietary issues have been addressed during recent camp initiatives

while continuing the cultural learning and substance abuse prevention aspects.

Definitions

Haudenosaunee, also known as the Six Nations of the Iroquois, refers to the People

of the Longhouse and describes a social group alliance that has historically revered

the teaching and wisdom of its elders. The elders, those with experience in traditional

practices of indigenous peoples, maintain the responsibility of carrying on the traditions

and cultural values of the Six Nations members and their descendants. The organizers

of this event are descendents of the Senecas, or Keepers of the Western Door of the

Six Nations alliance. Therefore, much of the teaching and learning activities are

rooted in this cultural framework.

Tradition will be defined as those practices and beliefs that are passed down from

generation to generation, usually orally, from elders with extensive practice knowledge

and experience in the Longhouse traditions. The traditional practices that tend to

receive the greatest amount of attention are those associated with the retention

of the

native

 language. Recently, in many indigenous communities, there has been a rise in efforts

to revitalize the traditional languages such as Seneca, the language spoken by many

from western New York state. Much of the history, and the values that emanate from

the history, is passed on orally from one generation to the next via the language.

The language is also instrumental in the appropriate recitation of the Thanksgiving

Address, the traditional way of giving thanks at the opening of a gathering, and

numerous recognized prayers and spiritual offerings.

Seven Generations is the term used to describe the belief that the activities, accomplishments,

and planning for the future needs to be cognizant with the needs and requirements

of future generations seven generations hence. As such, great care is taken to preserve

and retain cultural practices and to instill in the youth the importance of passing

on this knowledge and wisdom to the next generation.

Culture will be defined as the shared set of beliefs and values that emanate from

a groups practice of a shared language, behaviors, customs, and knowledge and is

derived from a common comprehension of reality, history, and future (Yutrzenka, Todd-Bazemore,

Caraway, 1999).

Activities

During the camp those in attendance are provided with the insights needed in order

to begin to develop an understanding of the basics of the Haudenosaunee belief system.

This includes knowing the importance of the earth ecosystem, each persons role as

caretaker of the "Earth Mother" and it's relevance to continued indigenous development.

Recognizing and understanding of the importance of the Seneca language use to convey

this knowledge is essential to this aspect of the program

For some who speak their language, they are able to present the Thanksgiving Address

in the native

 language. The Thanksgiving Address is an expression of appreciation for, and reverence

of, all things that have been provided to indigenous people by their creator. It

should be noted that while Seneca is the main language spoken by elders and attendees

of this camp, there are a number of attendees who speak the Mohawk language and will

offer the address using this language as well. Many program facilitators believe

that the erosion of indigenous cultures is in direct relation with the degree to

which language is practiced and spoken making language retention and usage high on

the camp priority list. Language is also believed to be central to appropriately

practicing the Longhouse belief system.

Among the Longhouse beliefs, the meaning and spirit of the ceremonial dances and

the welcoming of the new year receive utmost attention. Campers are provided with

information on the importance of the ceremonial dances as well as being provided

with an opportunity to develop some insight on how these dances are used and performed.

Since many of the campers come from different tribal nations and backgrounds, the

information presented is meant to serve as a reference guide and each is instructed

to explore the finer points of the dances and language interpretations as they apply

to each ones respective community upon their return to their home communities. There

are subtle differences and nuances that camp leaders make every effort to respect

and protect the integrity of these differences.

Traditional games such as lacrosse are also introduced and played by novices and

seasoned players alike. Many of the attendees are exposed to this game for the first

time. The more experienced players are always willing to take on added responsibility

as they teach the lesser experienced players the finer points of the game. The fun

and game activities are always included as part of the camp and balance of these

activities is sought to include the life lessons that are the theme of the week.

As the camp has evolved over the years, planners of this event have decided that,

based on the return rates of campers from previous years events, there is a developing

sense of cultural awareness in their participants and a renewed interest in regaining

the culture. This anecdotal data makes organizers optimistic that they are contributing

to the vision of planning for the next Seven Generations.

The concept of the "good mind" will be mentioned throughout this paper and is used

holistically in context with various activities that are being described. It is important

to note that many traditionalists believe that the mind, working in concert with

the Creator or Creators, allows the individual to make healthy living choices when

considering the use of mood altering substances, dietary content, and ones overall

lifestyle. As one continues to develop this pattern for living, the mind and body

are strengthened to support each other for the welfare of the person and to develop

their mental strength. The good mind is also essential in continuing the transfer

of knowledge from one generation to the next; knowledge that must be communicated

from a mind that is free of mood altering effects of alcohol and drugs.

Rationale

The goal of the original program organizers was that, upon completion of the week

of activities, these youth will, in turn, continue with the practices they have learned

and will share them with others. This community based work will aid in developing

the good mind which calls, in part, for community service.

Learning about their respective cultures and developing an understanding of the responsibility

that each person has for continuing their culture is a major component of the gathering.

Some of the more significant social aspects of the

programs

 include developing an understanding of the significance of wampum belts, the importance

and role of treaties and of the sovereignty that accompanies these treaty rights.

Youth are taught they each have an obligation and responsibility that is associated

with the continuance of these social agreements making the participants feel more

important as people. This sense of connection and involvement tends to encourage

each participant to feel more involved in their role in cultural preservation as

well as seeing themselves being vital to their groups' future. This sense of responsibility

is identified as one of the most meaningful and those attendees completing the program

tend to appreciate and accept this newfound sense of duty with optimism. Program

facilitators and leaders are generally pleased with the ability of the campers to

comprehend the spirit of the camp and state that they feel confident that they are

successful in their efforts.

At the outset of the program, the originators believed that if Native

 youth were provided with the opportunity to learn more of their culture, to interact

with other youth who share similar circumstances and concerns and were provided with

a forum to address these concerns in a non-threatening way, they would be able to

develop a greater sense of self. Those participants who actively engaged in this

week-long set of activities would then be able to more successfully engage in their

day to day lives upon returning to live in their "two world" communities (Moran,

Fleming, Somervell, Manson, 1999). These two worlds consist of their own local

Native

 communities and neighborhoods and that of the dominant American society. The challenges

of living in these two worlds, for

Native

 American youth, is said to be one of the most stressful processes they will ever

face particularly when factoring in the influences of poverty, socio-economic conditions,

and their experiences with social disenfranchisement (Cameron, 1999).

This paper also recognizes that the adolescents who attend the program have received

extensive exposure to the nonindigenous world through non-

Native

 peer groups, education systems, and the media. Thus, the concept of orthogonal cultural

identification whereby the member retains the cultural identities of one or more

influences as they attempt to negotiate their way through their daily activities.

Oetting states that individuals from multi-cultural backgrounds will draw from their

experiences in one or more cultures to achieve their means enabling them to increase

their identity in one or more cultures rather than relinquish some cultural traits

once they have been exposed to another. The individual develops socialization skills

whereby they retain aspects of their culture and incorporate those of another (Oetting,

Chiarella, 1998)

As the event has evolved over the years, so too has its purpose, size, and scope.

This paper hopes, that by reporting on the activities of the camp and in identifying

some of the success stories, it will contribute to the process of discovering whether

or not initiatives such as this have an impact on the rates of substance abuse and

healthy living. It is meant to be informative and invites others to share their experiences

with similar initiatives, most notably in effecting the incidence rates of substance

abuse and diabetes among

Native

 American youth. Researchers may also benefit from exploring any differences that

might exist when comparing healthy lifestyles and / or substance abuse rates among

attendees of camps such as this to those adolescents who do not experience these

types of camps.

While the efforts at understanding the impact of summer camps on substance use rates

among attendees has not been studied in great detail, this paper acknowledges that

the empirical data regarding this type of initiative is scant at best and hopes to

contribute the existing body of knowledge on this topic. This paper also offers perspectives

for future study.

Overview of Substance Abuse and Youth in Native America

Following is a presentation of the overall snapshot of substance abuse within Native

 American youth in contemporary American society. It is presented in the spirit of

identifying some of the relevant change rates of substance abuse within this population

and not designed to imply that all

Native Americans

 experience this level of abuse. The sole purpose of the data presented is to reflect

the degree to which this group has experienced greater morbidity rates from substance

abuse than those in other under-represented groups. Readers should caution against

focusing exclusively on the data that could suggest, to the uninformed, that the

entire population has a deficit in this area. On the contrary, as this article will

illuminate, there have been numerous instances where social effects have been recognized

and dealt with by members of this group only to turn potential extinction into strength.

The resiliency of this population can be seen not only in the stated effects of this

program, but in the steady growth of the group as a whole. According to the 2000

U.S. Census, the American Indian population has increased by more than twenty five

thousand since 1990. This data then is presented as a demonstration of resiliency

and strength rather than as a sign of deficit.

Within the general population, adolescents in the contemporary United States must

face challenges never before experienced in American history. Increased rates of

violence experienced at the hands of family members, suicides, and substance abuse

overdoses are taking the lives of hundreds of America's youth on a daily basis (Borowsky,

Resnick, Ireland, Blum, 1999; Cameron, 1999). Among adolescents,

Native

 American youth experience the highest rates of substance abuse in the U.S., including

the abuse of solvent based inhalants (Cameron, 1999; Beauvais, 1996; Plunkett & Mitchell,

2000; Howard et. al, 1999); experience alcoholism rates three times higher than in

other youth peer groups (Perkins, Giese, 1994); and experience the highest co-morbid

rates of substance related suicide and mental health problems (Herring, 1994; Cameron,

1999; Beauvais, 1996). In addition to experiencing the highest national rates of

street illegal drug use, rates of the use of smokeless tobacco products such as snuff

and chewing tobacco have increased dramatically within this group during the past

ten years leaving many youthful

Native

 American consumers physically scarred for life from the oral lesions produced by

the use of these products (Bruerd, 1990; JAMA, 1989).

Native

 American adolescents also tend to engage in health compromising behaviors such as

poor dietary practices and injuries related to substance abuse. Physical problems

related to continued mental distress are being experienced at higher rates than their

non-

Native

 peers as well (Beauvais, 1996). Of the various minority populations in the United

States,

Native

 American youth experience the largest substance related high school dropout rates

(Cameron, 1999) and are using the widest varieties of the most volatile substances

available (Novins & Mitchell, 1998). Of these volatile substances, inhalants are

fast becoming one of the more widely abused substances, particularly within the pre-teen

Native

 population. Inhalant use is said to be well on it's way to replacing marijuana as

the "gateway" substance for those who develop a dependency on alcohol and/or other

drugs (Howard, et. al, 1999). Although marijuana use among

Native

 American youth, which is generally higher for males than for females, should still

be regarded as one of the most widely abused gateway drugs (Mitchell & Plunkett,

2000), for those youth who engage in inhalant use, the progression to serious levels

of other drug use is much faster for those whose earliest drug use is marijuana and/or

alcohol (Herring, 1994). This literature review suggests that there are significant

indicators that differentiate the substance abuse problem among indigenous people

from those of contemporary society.

Mainstream substance abuse prevention programs have minimal effect when attempting

to address the Native

 American youth population. Unfortunately, many

programs that serve Native

 American client populations fall short of providing adequate treatment services

since most are only now starting to become more culturally competent as they begin

to incorporate these competencies into their practices (Weaver, 1999).

More recently, the threat of HIV/AIDS is increasing in Native America with the highest

rates being identified in the subgroups of Native

 people who are injecting illegal drugs and engaging in sexual activity. As a result

of this combination, the rates of HIV/AIDS among

Native Americans

 has doubled within the last three years (Baldwin, et. al., 1999).

Contemporary Native American Youth

It is widely accepted that societies and groups are the outcome of their historical

development and the factors that are significant to their group's development. Some

of the issues facing contemporary

Native

 American youth are the direct result of initiatives and government sponsored

programs

 initiated during the late 1800's to mid-1950's; efforts that were said to be designed

to address the Indian "problem." These initiatives and

programs, particularly those including boarding schools, did more to disrupt Native

 American life than any other government sponsored effort.

Boarding schools were the result of a governmental policy initiated in 1819 called

the Civilization Fund Act and was designed to provide legal rights to non-

native

 run agencies and churches whose goal was to civilize the Indian. This initiative

eventually evolved into little more than militaristic boot camps for Indigenous children

where these children were prohibited from speaking their languages, practicing their

customs, or using their true names given to them by their Nations (Cross, Earle,

Simmons, 2000). The long lasting effects of these schools have led to the steady

decline of the natural

Native

 American family system in many areas of North America (Harrod, 1999). In addition

to the damaging effects that this initiative has had on the traditional extended

family system, communal child rearing practices fell victim to this effort leaving

many children feeling abandoned and lost in a world without a connection or in the

care of adults who were ill-equipped to occupy the role of parents; having only the

abusive child development practices of the boarding school to rely on as a model

for their own parenting skills. This condition has been found to significantly contribute

to

Native

 American adolescents exorbitantly high rates of suicide, substance abuse, and risky

health behaviors which are the highest of any other minority group in North America

(Manson, Beals, Dick, Duclos, 1989).

The Program

G. Peter Jemison, Site Manager of Ganondagan Historical site, himself a Seneca, collaborated

on the initial effort with Jeannette Miller, Mohawk, and Marcheta "Marky" Davidson,

Seneca, who planned this initial event. Ms. Davidson originally introduced the idea

of this program in 1980 after having just returned from a similar function in another

Native

 community. The experience had such a dramatic impact on her and the youth in attendance

that she felt compelled to promote a similar event in her local community. Since

the first gathering at Ganondagan, these organizers have been joined by numerous

volunteers and many others who share their expertise as spiritualists, preparers

of traditional foods, and teachers of

Native American games, activities, and culture.

Originally, the program was sparsely funded and consisted of about 20 youth attendees

who were sponsored by their home territories, public grants and/or private contributions.

Local communities sponsored their youth and volunteers/chaperones for this camp.

Attendance at the inaugural camp consisted primarily of Senecas from the Western

New York State area. The program is also supported by members of Mohawk territory

in northern New York state which is located near the Canadian border. Over the past

several years, the numbers of youth attendees has steadily increased to about fifty

for the event and has welcomed some youth from as far away as California and Washington,

D.C.

The goal of the camp is to teach the youth that by learning and incorporating their

cultural values and practices into their lives that they can develop that which is

referred to as the "good mind"; a mind that is not influenced by mood altering substances,

serves them in healthy decision making processes, and helps to develop balance in

their lives. Many traditional First Nations people believe that a good mind is necessary

in order to live up to the expectations and directions given to each member by the

Creator. These directions include continued traditional practices, fairness in dealing

with others, and a commitment to serve ones community in supportive ways. In order

to accomplish this, the program consists of a number of activities that are designed

to keep the participants actively engaged in physical wellness through exercise,

activities designed to stimulate learning about their traditional culture, spirituality,

engaging in team sports.

Games such as lacrosse have long been enjoyed and used by indigenous people to aid

in teamwork and other group activities. The health benefits of a game as rigorous

as lacrosse make it one of the most beneficial health promoting activities one can

engage in. The effective socialization of the campers who play is also important

since this activity aids in helping the players to feel included and welcome; as

if they are an active participant and promotes the goal of establishing social support.

The social aspects, as well as the physical and cognitive benefits of playing this

game have a role in promoting sustained wellness.

Gaining knowledge of traditional foods and how they are prepared is also increasing

in popularity among the youth. This is particularly pleasing to the camp organizers

since they have recognized that, within many indigenous communities, there is an

alarming increase in the number of youth who are being diagnosed with adult onset

diabetes. Corn, beans, and squash, referred to as the "Three Sisters", factor in

heavily as staples of traditional dishes prepared by the campers and the elders who

present this aspect of the program feel much satisfaction and joy in the contribution

each is making in sustaining this aspect of the culture. There are currently plans

underway to address dietary concerns to a greater degree at future gatherings.

There is also considerable activity involved in learning the meanings of traditional

ceremonies, traditional dancing, beadwork, basket weaving, and participating in "talking

circles." Camp organizers believe that all aspects of traditional Haudenosaunee culture

are important and that exposure to the youth is critical in making their camping

experience a success. This holistic approach to addressing the needs of

Native

 American youth is consistent with a number of similar camp initiatives gaining momentum

nationwide and includes teaching them the importance of drawing on the practices

of their elders in achieving total wellness of their bodies, minds, and in providing

service to their community (Perkins, Giese, 1994; Reston, 1994; Vollers, 1996). Maintaining

a focus on this type of activity is believed to be one of the most significant factors

in helping the youth to develop the good mind and it's expected that this approach

to living will be modeled to their counterparts upon their return to their home community.

The typical day begins with a round of prayers and offerings of traditional tobacco

at sunrise at around 5:30 am followed by some light exercise and then breakfast which

sets the tone that this camp experience is not going to be some leisurely lounge

around time. Some campers jokingly state that, when they are in their own communities,

they are usually just returning home at this time. As a result, this early wake up

call is quite a shock to many of their sleep patterns. All participants are expected

to attend this ceremony which consists of burning tobacco as an offering of thanks

to the Creator and of saying prayers or asking for guidance and strength in preparation

for the days activities that lie ahead. In one aspect, the tobacco burning ceremony

is significant in that the purity of the smoke is believed to carry the prayers,

of those gathered, to the Creator. It should be noted that the campers are not forced

into, nor are they taught any particular brand of "religion," but are instead encouraged

by Haudenosaunee spiritual leaders to look within themselves and to others for strength.

Many of the youth, as a result of this encouragement, begin to find sources of strength

and/or spirituality that they may not have otherwise had the opportunity to seek.

Walking the peaceful early morning trails of Ganondagan and stretching the body is

necessary after a night of sleeping on the ground. Walking the grounds affords the

attendee the opportunity to reflect on the wealth of heritage and history that can

be learned as they read the plaques and markers along each trail that describe the

lives of the first inhabitants of this site. Another reason for the stretch is that

many of the activities that follow tend to require much sitting and listening to

traditional elders as they speaking about indigenous culture while providing some

insights for practicing these values and beliefs. Experience has shown that many

of the adolescents have little to no practice in this, (sitting and listening), and

instead have adopted to the ways of the dominant society where speaking out of turn

and demonstrating minimal respect for elders seems to be the norm. It should be noted

that this behavior doesn't go unrecognized by the elders and is thought to be partly

the result of having minimal exposure to these practices. That being the case, youth

are not punished for this behavior. Instead, youth who experience difficulty in listening

to the teachings of the camp leaders are redirected to become more in tune with the

value of respect of their elders and the wisdom each has to offer. Before the end

of the week, most of the youth who come into the camp as somewhat rebellious and

overactive seem to appreciate the structure and direction offered to them. As in

any gathering of this type, however, there are those who decide that this type of

structure isn't for them and promptly leave.

Part of the daily program offers translations and discussion of the traditional Thanksgiving

Address described earlier. The Message of the Peacemaker describes the manner in

people treat others with respect and work towards commonality and agreement. This

Message warns of the perils of divisiveness when resolving contentious issues and

the importance of consensus making for important decisions. The contributions to

the Great Law of Peace, which encourages the relinquishing of resentments between

individuals and groups so that all can live in harmony, is also a major component

of the learning activities. Camp organizers have also recognized that

Native

 youth experience many aspects of Haudenosaunee culture in settings where these are

presented in the

native

 language only and that many of the youth lack an understanding of the language.

This lack of understanding makes much of the wisdom contained in these messages non-accessible.

During the camp these addresses are generally spoken in the Seneca language but are

also spoken in accordance with the specific variation of the other member nations

as well as English for those without indigenous language skills. Therefore, care

is taken to ensure that the various teachings are interpreted in accordance with

the attendees language keeping in mind that the nuances of each nation differ and

that some campers speak only English. Resources for continued learning of their

native

 language is provided to the youth so that they can continue to learn their language

upon return to their respective communities.

Taking on the responsibility for the preparation and service of the food is also

seen as critical to the success of the youth's experience while at the camp and,

as a community effort, is one of the most important aspects of the program. Many

of the traditional dishes, such as corn soup, require diligence, time, and much work

in order for it to be prepared successfully. Being of service to the community in

preparing the food is as much a symbolic need as it is one of necessity. Service

to the community is seen as vital to the success of this and other such camping experiences.

A Cherokee youth fitness camp reports similar success when promoting cultural retention

through practicing of traditional values, beliefs, and approaches to spirituality,

particularly when focusing on the importance of service to the community and in taking

responsibility for their service roles (Perkins, L. K. & Giese, M. L., 1994).

Engaging in traditional team sports tends to be one of the most enjoyable aspects

of this camp for youth. It is during these activities that many bonds are made and

friendships are initiated that have endured over the years. Many of the youth return

every year and these relationships are renewed as while creating linkages for them

to network with other

Native

 youth. This linkage is particularly crucial to those who live off of the reservation

and who may not have the benefit of knowing other

Native Americans

 from their peer group. Research has shown that while many minority groups experience

some culture separation as a result of living in two worlds,

Native

 American youth experience greater degrees of disenfranchisement since prejudice

against their racial group is supported in contemporary society in the form of stereotypical

sports team mascots, educational systems with insensitive stereotypical approaches

and portrayals of their culture, and of having to endure life in a society that degrades

their ethnic identities (Moran, Fleming, Somervell, Manson, 1999).

"Talking circles" are also part of the program. Talking circles are group activities

that allow for the attendees to share, in a non-threatening and supportive environment,

issues that are upsetting to them and where the camper may wish to address personal

concerns and seek support for resolving this issue. Participants take turns to share

what's going on in their lives and are given undivided attention of the others. For

many, this is the first time they have ever felt acknowledged and completely heard

or listened to--that their voice means something. Many participants, youth and adult

chaperones alike, regard this activity as one of the more emotionally stimulating

and powerful of their experiences at the camp. Personally distressing issues that

have laid dormant for years, sometimes decades, are released during this activity

creating an atmosphere of increased trust and commitment among those who engage in

the talking circle.

The significance of this activity is that participants are able to discuss some of

their most personal concerns and feel comfortable in knowing that they are not alone

in their struggles. Many leave this activity feeling much freedom from stress related

to their problems and a sense of shared unity with other youth who may be experiencing

similar dilemmas. The promotion of mental welness is a hallmark of this activity.

The day generally ends around 10 PM. with discussions around the fire where the youth

are invited to share the events of the day and assist in the direction for planning

the next days events. A social dance is usually held on the last night where members

of the community and volunteers are invited to participate in closing ceremonies.

The social dance at this camp consists of campers, elders, and community members

having a dinner provided by the campers at late afternoon. This dinner is followed

by a gathering around a fire where a drum and singing group will perform traditional

songs for all to dance to. The dance usually has someone on hand to provide the Thanksgiving

Address to those guests who have joined for the evening and to wish them a safe trip

home upon the completion. The host also provides a description of the song and a

history of its significance to the society.

Future Plans and Initiatives

Future plans for this gathering are twofold. First, it is the hope of the organizers

that there will be a preparatory type of gathering for the youth who been attending

over the years so that they can assume a more active role in the actual operation

of the camp function and activities. Several of the youth will be making their third

or fourth return and, since they have demonstrated the ability to serve in leadership

roles, these youth will be afforded the opportunity to serve as community chaperones

and small group leaders. As one youth attendee writes, this is the chance "to give

youth from Akwasasne the chance that I got to learn so much about myself and my history

and my culture" as she assumes a leadership role for the first time in 2001 (David,

2000). In time, she hopes that by sharing her experiences, she will initiate added

interest in this type of program and will host similar events in her community. This

aim is supported by a large number of researchers who have argued the best efforts

at providing long-term effectiveness of

programs

 initiated within reservations are most effective when it is a community-based effort

(Cheadle, Pearson, Wagner, Psaty, Diehr, Koepsell, 1995).

Plans for the future include an added focus on foods and healthy dietary habits.

Focusing on dietary needs and leading healthier lifestyles is said to be a central

concern within many

Native

 American communities. Diabetes is recognized as a growing and significant health

problem for increasing numbers of

Native Americans

 and indigenous communities. Some Nations are reporting that the rates of type two

diabetes is at fifty percent (American Diabetes Association, 2000).

In a study using Indian Health Services data that was collected from 1990 to 1997,

statistics show a 29% increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes among indigenous

Americans

 and Alaskans with women showing a significantly higher rate of increase than men

and those representing the Alaska subset showing a 76% increase overall (Burrows,

Geiss, Engelau & Acton, 2000).

One Native

 youth camp sponsored by the University of Arizona focuses exclusively on the physical

wellness of its participants; particularly in ways for participants to both manage

obesity and in learning how to monitor blood sugar levels due to their increased

rates of type 2 diabetes--the type known as adult onset diabetes that is normally

found in people over thirty years of age (Sterba, 1997). Personal wellness and improved

health status for

Native Americans

 is going to be one of the vehicles by which the strengthening of Nations can be

achieved; primarily by reducing the incidence of diabetes. Since the disease of diabetes

is such a rapidly growing problem within Indian Country, the strategy of providing

diabetes education as a prevention effort will significantly improve the quality

of life for this generation and Seven Generations hence. As so many of the elders

and supporters of this event will say, "it begins with the youth."

The ideal outcome of this camp, according to organizers, is for the youth who attend

this camp consistently to return to their home communities and develop similar initiatives

locally. There has been overwhelming support from other communities who have supported

their youth's attendance at this camp and many adults are beginning to develop strategies

to host similar events. It is believed that if more youth experience this type of

camping event that the host community will benefit overall. It is expected that it

will be their youth and the community members in general who increase the likelihood

of developing healthier lifestyles, increased mental wellness, and increased retention

of cultural traits. In keeping with the spirit of the "good mind and in preparing

for the seventh generation, organizers and attendees of this camp feel convinced

that is has the ability to satisfy these aims.

References

Anonymous (2000). New program raises diabetes awareness among Native Americans. Diabetes

Forecast, 1, 66-68.

Baldwin, J. A., Trotter, R. T., Martinez, D., Stevens, S. J. (1999). HIV/AIDS risks

among Native

 American drug users: key findings from focus group interviews and implications for

intervention strategies. AIDS Education and Prevention, 4, 279-293.

Beauvais, F. (1996). Trends in drug use among American Indian students and dropouts,

1975-1994. American Journal of Public Health, 11, 1594-1598.

Blum, R. W., Harmon, B., Harris, L., Bergeisen, L., Resnick, M. D. (1992). American

Indian--Alaska Native

 youth health. JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association,

12, 1637-1645.

Borowsky, I. W., Resnick, M.D., Ireland, M., Blum, R.W. (1999). Suicide attempts

among American Indian and Alaska Native

 youth: risk and protective factors. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine,

6, 573-591.

Bruerd, B. (1990). Smokeless tobacco use among Native American school children. Public

Health Reports, 2,196-204.

Burrows, N., Geiss, L., Engelgau, M., Acton, K. (2000). Prevalence of diabetes among

Native Americans

 and Alaska natives, 1990-1997. Diabetes Care, 23, 1786-1793.

Cameron, L.A. (1999). Understanding Alcohol abuse in American Indian/ Alaska Native

youth. Pediatric Nursing, 3, 297-305.

Cheadle, A., Pearson, D., Wagner, E., Psaty, B. M., Diehr, E, Koepsell, T. (1995).

A community based approach to preventing alcohol abuse among adolescents on an American

Indian reservation. Public Health Reports, 4, 439-448.

Prevalence of oral lesions and smokeless tobacco use in Northern Plains Indians (1993).

Journal of the American Medical Association, 1, 25-27.

Cross, T. A., Earle, K. A., Simmons, D. (1998). Child abuse and neglect in Indian

country: policy issues. Families and Society: The Journal of Contemporary Human Services,

1, 49-63.

David, A. (2000, August 25). Ganondagan youth/elders gathering. Indian Time, pp.

1,7.

Harrod, H.L. (1999). The way of the pipe: aboriginal spirituality and symbolic healing

in Canadian prisons. American Indian Quarterly, 2, 94-96.

Herring, R. D. (1994). Substance among Native

 American Indian youth: a selected view of causality. Journal of Counseling and Development,

6, 578-593.

Howard, M., Walker, R. D., Walker, P.S., Cottler, L. B., Compton, W. N. (1999). Inhalant

use among urban American Indian youth. Addiction, 1, 83-95.

Jay, J. (2000). The spiritual dimension of healing. World and I, 5, 265-268.

Lowrey, C.T. (1998). American Indian perspectives on addiction and recovery. Health

and Social Work, 2, 127-135.

Manson, S. M., Beals, J., Dick, R. W., Duclos, C. (1989). Risk factors for suicide

among Indian adolescents at a boarding school. Public Health Reports, 6, 609-615.

Mitchell, C. M., Plunkett, M. (2000). The latent structure of substance abuse among

American Indian adolescents: an example using categorical variables. American Journal

of Community Psychology, 1, 105-125.

Moran, J. R., Fleming, C. M., Somervell, P., Manson, S. M. (1999). Measuring bicultural

ethnic identity among American Indian adolescents: a factor analytic study. Journal

of Adolescent Research, 4, 405-426.

Novins, D. K. & Mitchell, C. M. (1998). Research report: factors associated with

marijuana use among American Indian adolescents. Addiction, 11, 1693-1702.

Oetting, R. C. & Chiarella, M. C. (1998). Factor structure and invariance of the

orthogonal cultural identification scale among American Indian and Mexican American

youth. Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 20, 131-154.

Perkins, L. K. & Giese, M. L. (1994). Cherokee Nation youth fitness camp: health

promotion and disease prevention for Native

 American youth. The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, 65, 60-63.

Plunkett, M. & Mitchell, C. (2000). Substance use rates among American Indian adolescents:

regional comparisons with monitoring the future high school seniors. Journal of Drug

Issues, 30, 575-591.

Sterba, J. (1997, July 23). Camp focuses on Native

 American children with diabetes. Arizona Summer Wildcat [On Line]. Available: http://www.ahsc.

arizona.edu/~fcm/WhatsNew/nartcat.html

Vollers, M. (1996, August 26). Indian Summer: at Camp Wolakota Yukini, troubled Sioux

teens learn the traditions of their past as they seek out a better future. Time,

148, 36-39.

Voss, R. W., Douville, V., Little Soldier, A, Twiss, G. (1999). Tribal and shamanic-based

practice: a Lakota perspective. Social Work, 3, 228-241.

Weaver, H. (1999). Indigenous people and the social work profession: defining culturally

competent services. Social Work, 3, 217-225.

Yutrzenka, B. A., Todd-Bazemore, E., Caraway, S. J. (1999). Four Winds: the evolution

of culturally sensitive clinical psychology training for

Native Americans. International Review of Psychology, 2/3, 11,129-135.

Warren Skye School of Social Work University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14260

WARREN SKYE

University at Buffalo

State University of New York

-1-

Questia, a part of Gale, Cengage Learning. www.questia.com

Publication Information:

Article Title: E.L.D.E.R.S. Gathering for Native American Youth: Continuing Native

American Traditions and Curbing Substance Abuse in Native American Youth. Contributors:

Warren Skye - author. Journal Title: Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare. Volume:

29. Issue: 1. Publication Year: 2002. Page Number: 117+. COPYRIGHT 2002 Western Michigan

University, School of Social Work; COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group

Next Page

Jessie Rayl
thedogmom63 at frontier.com
www.facebook.com/Eaglewings10
www.pathtogrowth.org
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://www.acb.org/pipermail/acb-hsp/attachments/20120626/7ac83e4a/attachment-0001.html>