Interdependence
Written by: Juliana Crandall, CITC Academic Advocate, Begich Middle School
Interdependence in the Native community is something unique. Look at any gathering, funeral, wedding or village. You will see laughter, live, tears, a vibrant community, and individuals relying on each other to live a full life. A tradition that has been carried in our Native communities for generations.
One of the joys of my job is planning and hosting gatherings in the schools. The last gathering I helped with, I saw our interdependence shine. Transitioning from one school to a new one this year, gave me an opportunity to connect with new faces and new smiles.
Our first pipeline gathering was held at Begich Middle School and all four schools were invited, those being Bartlett, Begich, and Susitna & Scenic Park elementary. It took time and manpower to make the basic part of the gathering happen, a collegial effort amongst staff and partners. Our community made the real magic happen, though. Food was shared, dancers and drummers played to fill our hearts and laughter was flowing throughout. In the end, I felt like we all left with something. Although it may have been different for everyone, I felt like something more was shared.
This is my story of interdependence as I saw it at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year.
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