A little-known University of Idaho fact holds a special importance to student Elias Trahant.
“There is actual history to this place,” Trahant said, referring to the fact that UI”s campus is located on Nez Perce land. “This is where the Nez Perce used to hunt and live.”
Yishan Chen | Argonaut
Elias Trahant, a Navajo tribe member, and other Native American students on campus celebrate culture and tradition for the beginning of Native American Heritage Month.
He said students and faculty alike should be more aware of where the university is located, and thankful of the beautiful campus.
Native American Heritage month is a time that Native Americans can be recognized and celebrate their diverse culture, traditions and histories, Trahant said.
Trahant said he chose UI because he connected with the environment. Trahant said presence of a Native American center on campus had a huge impact on his decision.
“The University of Idaho opened the door and I felt the most comfortable here,” Trahant said. “The Native Center had a great deal with my decision. They are like a home away from home.”
Trahant is a member of the Navajo tribe and is also affiliated with the Shoshone and Bannock of Fort Hall. Trahant said members of the tribe are expected to work hard during the summer months, but during the winter months, such as November, the tribe gathers together to tell stories.
Trahant recalled the story of Coyote, who tricks a man into giving him his regalia and his horse and rides off.
“Coyote just looks back at the man and yells, “I”ve already won,”” Trahant said describing the story.
Trahant said it”s just one example of the traditional stories that are told during the winter months.
Some stories are lighthearted and others are more meaningful and meant to teach lessons to the members of the tribe. Trahant said he appreciates his heritage and the sense of duty he feels being a Native American.
“We shouldn”t be as overlooked as we are,” Trahant said. “And we should have our stories shared because we are dying out as a culture. Not many people are fluent speakers and not many people live in traditional settings.”
Yet, Trahant said the UI community should recognize the history behind campus and Native American culture.
“We”re still here,” Trahant said. “And we want to be represented.”
Kristen Bertoloni can be reached at [email protected]