Along with other Kamehameha Schools representatives and KSDL presenters, I was privileged to attend the week-long World Indigenous People's Conference on Education in May. The event reflected the common educational goals of native peoples around the globe. It provided a place and community in which to share stories, gain insights, and discover ways in which native cultures and traditions are being integrated into the learning experience.
I found the workshops and huaka‘i to be very thought-provoking. The challenges over time of native cultures to be recognized, respected, and to perpetuate traditions seems to be universal. The effects of colonialism was a common thread. It was fascinating to hear the different histories and how the challenges are being managed today. For me, the conference was a reaffirmation of the dignity of human life, no matter who you are or where you're from.
Horses painted on a tipi at the conference:
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