Day 11

Coeur d’Alene Tribe Natural Resources

Day 11

            We arrived in Coeur d’Alene’ Natural Resources a little past 1. We were all starving and tired from Dr. Jessica Black waking us up early morning. Our first presenter was Laura of the Coeur d’Alene Natural Resources and gave us a history lesson of the Coeur d’Alene tribe which included a lot of government betrayal that led left of land and hangings of tribal leaders. Also described was mining and train transportation which led to pollution of lead, cadmium, zinc, and other heavy metals to flow into the Coeur d’Alene Lake causing major health and habitat problems. I asked Laura if there was any cleanup plans but Idaho government has denied pollution and encourages tourism of the lake. People swim, fish, and boat in this lake. It just made me sick hearing her presentation.

            Now on the flip side we had a presentation by Audra Vincent a local Language Program Manager helping to restore the language of the tribe. She has a bachelor’s in world languages and has classes that teach adults to learn the Coeur d’Alene language to hopefully teach others in their homes. Only two members of the tribe speak fluently and are in there high ages which include Felix Aripa who is also the last WWII veteran of the tribe. He has a huge impact in the tribe’s culture and community. Audra and her helper Michelle continue to work on helping restore the language and culture.

            Afterwards we all gather with the tribe’s community at the local long house to have a traditional feast put on by two sisters and their mom. They keep the tradition by making home meals salmon, deer, water potatoes, and others. We first sampled them as their ancestors would in order given than would feast on the main course. Afterwards we would end with water as tradition. I also forgot to mention that we start by drinking water. We receive food from the earth and its creator only to respect and pay tribute back. Along with the dinner, we had traditional singing and dancing which include the Swan Dance and Butterfly Dance. Their culture is still strong in their community and I respect that.