November is designated as Native American Heritage Month to honor the history, culture and contributions of Native Americans and Alaska Natives. In this conversation, Senior Manager of Diversity and Belonging Mercedes Blea-Davis had the opportunity to speak with Crystal DeLeon, Special Education Teacher at DSST: Green Valley Ranch Middle School, to discuss her culture and the significance of being Indigenous in today's world.
Mercedes: What do you feel people within the DSST community should know about you, your culture, etc.?
Crystal: As Indigenous people, we’ve faced historical challenges such as forced relocation and loss of language, which have shaped our communities. However, we remain resilient, and cultural revitalization is a priority for us.
Mercedes: What tribe are you a part of, and what does it mean to be a member of your tribe?
Crystal: My ancestors were Comanche, and my children have Navajo blood from my husband. Our culture holds a deep connection to the land, community, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. One of the most important values in my culture is respect for the earth, for elders, and for each other.
Mercedes: Can you tell us about your culture?
Crystal: In my culture, family and community are at the heart of everything. We believe in supporting each other and that respect for the earth and all living things is essential.
Mercedes: What is the significance of your tribal name and traditional stories?
Crystal: Tribal stories often involve ancestors or spiritual beings, helping to maintain a sense of continuity and connection with the past. This reinforces the importance of respecting elders and honoring the legacy of those who came before.
Mercedes: What are the key aspects of your tribal culture that are important to preserve?
Crystal: My people have faced many challenges over the years, including the loss of our language and forced relocation for my ancestors, but we continue to celebrate and preserve our culture in spite of these hardships.
Mercedes: How would you like your culture to be passed down or acknowledged?
Crystal: I would like my culture to be passed down through the education of our youth, teaching them our language, history, and traditions, so that they can continue to carry our heritage forward. I also hope that my culture will be passed down through the continuation of traditional art forms and crafts, ensuring that the skills and knowledge of our ancestors are not lost.
Mercedes: What are some misconceptions you would like to address?
Crystal: People tend to think that all Native Americans live on reservations, practice traditional dancing, and wear beautiful regalia. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Our culture was stripped from so many of us that we are still fighting to teach the new generation about our past.
Mercedes: What are some positive steps that can be taken to promote understanding and respect for Native American cultures?
Crystal: I hope that everyone will approach Indigenous culture with respect and curiosity and be open to learning from one another. If anyone wants to learn more or have a conversation, I’d be happy to share my experiences and knowledge.
As Crystal states in her interview, those seeking to gain more knowledge or become involved with the Indigenous community, please reach out to her and inquire about how you can contribute right in your own communities.