Salmon Civilization
Nch'i Wana Housing is the fiscal sponsor of a local educational program called Salmon Civilization, which brings hands-on creative programs to teach local tribal history to the youth of the Columbia River Gorge. Drawing extensively from the Oregon state curriculum "Tribal History Shared History" and Washington state curriculum "Since Time Immemorial", educator Pamela Larsen facilitates 1-2 week long programs on Celilo Falls, Salmon Scam, and Chief Joseph to local schools grades 3rd through 12th. Her trauma-informed and creative arts emphasis means students stay engaged. At least one Native educator comes into the classroom with each program, bringing cultural teachings and personal testimony.
The Celilo Falls Project
This program connects students to the living history of Celilo Falls through art and humanities, based on “Celilo Falls StoryPath” created by Shana Brown (Yakama) for STI. It teaches students about the historical, cultural, and economic significance of Celilo Falls, and raises awareness that Celilo Falls is a living history that continues today. The Celilo Falls Project aims to use the students’ imagination and creativity to facilitate personal investment in the history of Celilo Falls. Students construct a mixed media miniature of the Falls while learning its historical importance.
Salmon Scam and the Fish Wars
This program exposes students to the unjust history of fishing regulations and the valiant fight in the 1980s by David Sohappy Sr. of Cooks Landing to protect his people's spiritual, cultural, and economic right to fish. After learning about Salmon Scam, students at Nixya'awii made an art installation in the cafeteria representing some of the players in Salmon Scam.
Tribal Educators in the Classroom
As part of these programs, local Tribal members are invited to visit the classroom. Contact with local Tribal members provides an opportunity to break down stereotypes and build greater understanding of the Native experience through the first person narrative.
