photo credit: Jackie Aaron
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A Legacy of Resilience
As you know, the history of Native peoples in North America carries the profound and often devastating legacy of centuries of colonization. For the Cheyenne and Arapaho, who hold a deep ancestral connection with what became Boulder, Niwot, and surrounding settlements, this history has presented immense challenges to the preservation of their history, culture, and practices.
Since the tragic Sand Creek Massacre that drove their people out of Colorado, seven generations of Cheyenne and Arapaho have struggled to keep traditions, languages, and ceremonies alive – everything from powwow dances and beadwork to knowledge about sacred plants, and of course, their native languages too. Heartbreakingly, out of 8000 Southern Arapaho alive today, only about a dozen fluent speakers remain – a direct and painful consequence of that legacy of colonization.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on seven generations. This isn’t just about the passage of time, or a simple number. The Seven Generations principle resonates deeply with Native peoples because it embodies a profound philosophy of intergenerational responsibility and stewardship, guiding decisions to consider their impact for descendants they will never meet while honoring the legacy of long-ago and cherished ancestors. This holistic worldview fosters stewardship of land, culture, and community, ensuring long-term well-being and sustainability.
A Camp Rooted in Cultural Enrichment and Revitalization
This principle of long-term vision is precisely what drives events like this year’s Arapaho and Cheyenne Culture Enrichment Encampment, an opportunity for youth to connect with their heritage on ancestral lands. The camp will be held near Gold Hill in early July. We view this camp as not just an opportunity for fun summer events, but as a chance for Cheyenne and Arapaho youth to inhabit their own ancestral lands and immerse themselves in culture, language, history, and so much more.
Through the camp’s immersive programs, youth can deeply connect with their heritage. The list of activities includes language enrichment through storytelling and conversation with our elders, sharing traditional narratives that impart cultural values, and engaging in hands-on activities like tipi raising, exploring the profound importance of horse culture, and practicing traditional archery and woodcraft.
As you can see, the Seven Generations ideal is not just a phrase, it drives everything we do - we’re not merely preserving the past; we're actively fostering cultural pride, teaching invaluable life lessons, and building a strong, resilient foundation for the next generation.
You're Invited: A VIP Fundraising Event
As you know, all of this takes dedication, energy, and most crucially, money. To help fund all the activities for the camp, we're hosting a truly exclusive and intimate VIP fundraising event on June 13 in Niwot. The event will be held at the private home of someone we are forever grateful to, as she’s giving her time and expertise to help make all of this happen.
This special gathering is designed specifically for our most dedicated supporters – individuals like you who genuinely understand the profound impact of preserving cultural legacy and investing in the boundless potential of young minds. We envision an evening of meaningful connection, featuring a special engagement with Fred Mosqueda of the Southern Arapaho.
Why Your Support Matters
Attendance at this VIP event requires a minimum pledge of $500. We see this pledge as more than just a donation; it's a powerful investment in the continuation of vital cultural education, in the empowerment of Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho youth, and in the enduring spirit of a rich and resilient heritage. Your commitment at this level will directly support the expansion of our language programs, the provision of essential resources for our encampment activities, and the creation of even more opportunities for profound cultural immersion.
Reserve Your Spot
To secure your invitation to this exclusive event and confirm your pledge, please take a moment to complete the form below by June 9th: https://forms.gle/A3CvyBnaZzBzmbjX7
We will send out a detailed invitation with the address and precise time for the VIP event on June 13 once we’ve collected all the pledges.
Can’t Join Us? You Can Still Help
If you’re unable to attend, we would still be deeply grateful for your support. Please consider sharing this effort with friends, family, or colleagues who may be interested in contributing.
Thank you so much for considering this special invitation. We truly look forward to seeing you and sharing our collective vision for a vibrant future for Cheyenne and Arapaho youth.
Tom Myer
Oswe:ge' dwagáhdęgyo:
I am Six Nations Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́:nih
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