The 6th graders at Tinora Elementary school were treated with a visit by some Native Americans on February 13th. The class had been recently studying how indian children were taken away from their families on the reservations to learn the ways of the white culture. In these schools they were forbidden to speak their language or embrace anything about their culture. The philosophy at the time was to "kill the indian and save the man". It was a misguided attempt to help the native americans to fit into society.

"Walking Man",a Lakota Indian raised on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota attended one of these schools as a child and shared his experiences with the students and how it continues to have a negative effect on the native american society to this day. He admits that grave mistakes were made on both sides but focused on the present opportunity to enlighten a new generation of Americans about the rich history of the original native people in America.

"Eagle Heart" from Shawnee heritage, led several traditional songs which included drums and student participation.He shared how he was unable to learn of his heritage because of public prejudices as a child but thankful that we as a nation are putting those things into the past and embracing what makes us different.

"Turtle Women" from the Mingo Nation, discussed the role of women and the clan mothers in caring for the people.That the native american community is a matriarchal society, it is the women who rules at the heart of the family, clan or tribe.

"Running Wolf" explained how the role of the War Chief is centered around maintaining peace and representing the voice of the people from the clan mothers at the Chief Counsel meetings. He also explained how non-natives are adopted into the native american community at any stage in their life. "If you feel indian and embrace the this culture than you are welcome but it comes with a great responsibilty! You can not choose your parent,brother or sister, you were born with them but if you choose to adopt another as a son, daughter or grandchild, you are responsible for them and they are for you and their families until the time the Great Spirit comes...

The session was concluded with questions from the students. Ms.Jami Mains, the 2008 Walmart Teacher of the Year in Defiance County coordinated this activity and is looking forward to expanding this type of activity throughout the other grades at Tinora Elementary.

(pictured from left to right: Ms. Jami Mains, Walking Man and Eagle Heart)