myCSUSM
Events Archive
2024
- February
Noli Indian School Campus Tour
On Friday 2/16, The CICSC gave a campus tour to Noli Indian School. With the help from our AISA students, Noli was able to experience where the locations of buildings were, an in-depth presentation of what the CICSC is and stands for, a little bit about AISA, and other student orgs as well! AISA students who were giving the tour also took them to see Monica Zavala’s artwork that is up at the CSUSM library. After all that, we fed the guests and gave them American Indian Studies t-shirts! What a great day💙
Pow Wow Workshops With Kiara Love Flores
Here at Cal State San Marcos every week from 3:30pm - 6:30pm, we have Pow Wow Practice hosted by the Culture Ambassador Kiara Love Flores. - CICSC February 2024 Newsletter
- March
Two-Spirit Storytelling with Landa Lakes
Landa Lakes will be visiting CSUSM this week from 3/7-3/10, 2024, with Two-Spririt Storytelling, a Q&A session, and a weekend intensive.
Two Spirit Storytelling
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- March 7, 2024
- 7:30pm
- Arts 111
Artist Q&A
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- March 8,2024
- 12pm
- CCC- USU 3400
Weekend Intensive
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- March 9 & 10, 2024
- 10:00am-6:00pm
- Arts 101
CSUSM University Library's Context Exhibit Series: All Our Relatives by Monica Zavala
CICSC Project Coordinator Monica Zavala's newest art show 'Wee ‘Eyoohiinkem (Tongva), "All Our Relatives." will open as the CSUSM University Library's Context Exhibit Series for the Spring semester.
- Art Reception
- March 14, 2024
- 6:00pm-8:00pm
- Kellogg 5400 Reading Room, 5th Floor
- Art can be viewed on the 3rd floor of the Kellogg Library until May 19, 2024
44th Annual California Conference on American Indian Education in Sacramento, CA | March 18, 2024
Empowering Indigenous Voices: Re-imagining the Campus through Art and Language
Presented by Eric Tippeconnic, PhD, American Indian Studies Department, CSUSM
Monica Zavala, Project Coordinator Specialist, Isaiah Chantaca, Kiara Love Flores, Cheyenne Smith, Canaan Tubby, Aiden Valverde, Student Research Assistants, CICSC, CSUSM_______________________________________________
From March 17th to 19th, our AISA students and AIS faculty participated in the Annual California Conference on American Indian Education in Sacramento, where they presented on ways to indigenize the CSUSM campus and enhance Native perspectives through art and language. - CICSC March 2024 Newsletter
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- April
All Tribes Charter School Campus Visit
On April 4, All Tribes Charter School visited the campus! With the help from our amazing AISA members, the kids were able to experience the ins and outs of the campus beauty, talk to some faculty, see Monica’s art that is up in the CSUSM library, go to the store, and see the Tukwut Statue! What a great visit and eventful day! We loved touring them!
AISA Tabling at Cougar Blue Days
On April 6, AISA tabled at Cougar Blue Days! We had such a great time meeting incoming students and showing them around the center at our open house! Students were also able to meet the AISA president!
2nd Annual American Indian Studies Research Symposium
On April 19th, the CSUSM American Indian Studies Department held its second annual symposium. The event celebrated the achievements of students, faculty, staff, and alumni. It featured an impressive range of research that benefits our communities, including art exhibitions, initiatives on food sovereignty, toolkits for decolonizing diets, healthcare access for AIAN communities, and programs addressing waste from tobacco, e-cigarettes, and cannabis. Other highlights included projects on science service, the Native American Caucus, career development, and political participation. During the symposium, we recognized two distinguished American Indian alumni: Dr. Temet McMichael from the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians received the Alumni Service to Society Award, and Keely Linton from the Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians was honored with the Alumni Impact Award. We also paid tribute to The Myers Family (Pomo) and commemorated Raquelle "Kelly" Myers by presenting the first Kelly Myers Tribal Justice Scholarships to three deserving students. Additionally, we celebrated Laura Romero, the former AIS Academic Coordinator, for her outstanding dedication to the AIS Department.
- May
2024 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
Come out and celebrate the Class of 2024 American Indian Graduates!
- May 17, 2024
- SBSB Courtyard
- Event Pictures
2023
- February
AISA at the CSUSM Student Organization Fair
- April
Opening Day of "Native Motion"
Join us for the opening day of "Native Motion" April 1st, from 2pm-4pm. The reception will be held at California State University of Fullerton Library (PLN-130) and the exhibition will be at the CSUF Salz-Pollak Atrium Gallery. The Gallery is a special art exhibition curated by Dr. Eric Tippeconnic featuring the art of Karin Walkingstick (Cherokee), Dr. Rodney Haring (Seneca), Monica Zavala (Tongva/ Acjachemen), and Dr. Eric Tippeconnic (Comanche). Native Motion will be available for viewing until June 28, 2023.
California Indian Nations College (CINC) CSUSM & CICSC Campus Tour
Cultural Workshops
This month, AISA and CICSC students participated in workshops for gourd decorating, peyote beading, and tule boat building, which was with Dr. Stan Rodriguez.
Drone Operation Certification Program
Attention AI/AN community! Are you interested in earning a drone operation certification?
Are you a person who is:
• Age 18 - 28 years old?
• Excited about flying drones to view the world from the sky?
• Interested in drone aviation?
• Willing to learn the FAA rules & regs to safely share airspace with other aircraft?
• Looking for career opportunities that may include flying drones full-time or part-time?
• Ready to have an impact as an early participant in shaping drone-related industries, cultures, and policies?
• Drawn to connecting with nature in our coastal areas?Our FREE program is:
• Happening in Oceanside, San Diego and surrounding areas;
• Sponsored by grants, so it's free for participants;
• Includes (free!) in-person drone flying lessons, to help you learn to fly drones in a variety of coastal weather conditions;
• Includes (free!) online self-paced coursework and Zoom-based office hours, to help you learn drone safety knowledge so you can take the FAA exam for a Part 107 certification,
• Focused on increasing diversity in aviationHere is a sampling of Zone Certification Career options:
• Agriculture Surveyor
• Photographer/Filmmaker
• Real Estate film production
• Emergency Response/Search & Rescue
• Marine scientist
• Forest conservation scientist
• Data scientist - May
2023 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
- September
Welcome Back Luncheon
Calling all CSUSM American Indian and Alaskan Natives to join us for a welcome back luncheon to meet our students, faculty, and staff. Our welcome back and welcoming luncheon will be held on Tuesday September 5th, 2023 during U-hour.
The First Peoples Fund, In Partnership with the CICSC, Present...
Native Artist Professional Development
Sep. 12 & 13, 2023 | 9 am - 4:30 pm PT
Elevate your entrepreneurial journey and grow as a culture bearer and community leader with the NAPD course! This 2-day program is tailored to provide Native artists with the essential tools and support to manage small businesses, ensuring sustainability for themselves, their families, and their communities. Hosted in partnership with the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC), this empowering experience brings together trainers Tiffany Adams (Chemehuevi/Koyoomk’awi/Nisenan), Carolyn Melenani Kuali`i (Native Hawaiian/Apache), and Ben Sherman (Oglala Lakota) to guide you on your journey to thrive as a Native artist entrepreneur! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
California Indian Day
Join us as we celebrate California Indian Day with some traditional California Indian snacks. Our American Indian Student Alliance will be passing out Acorn Bites and Chia Lemonade
AIS and CICSCIt was a very successful CA Indian Day celebration! Photos will be posted tomorrow. Thank you @shermanindianhighschool culinary class who shared their delicious dishes with everyone! And to @ishpaa_hepshu @jdlabrake for joining us and sharing birdsongs with our students. Also thank you to our bird dancers and students who helped make the event go by so smooth. Appreciate everyone’s help.
- September 19th
- 12-1PM
- USU Courtyard
- Event Pictures
CICSC Open House
Discover the CICSC and AIS. Join us and explore our mission and activities!
RSVP to AIS@csusm.edu- September 19th
- 5-6PM
- SBSB 1118 & SBSB Courtyard
Pow Wow Workshops With Kiara Love Flores
All style Pow Wow Dances, Alternating Mondays & Wednesdays
Starting Wednesday September 20th, 3:30 pm - 5:00pm, SBSB Serenity Circle
California Indian Day at the State Capitol
"On September 22, 2023, a group of our American Indian students and faculty embarked on a impactful journey to the California State Capitol in Sacramento. The Capitol grounds came alive with a striking display of flags representing every federally recognized tribe in California, a powerful visual testament of our California Indigenous communities. The event featured tribal and state leaders such as Jamul Chairwoman Erica Pinto, CICSC advisory board member, and the esteemed Assembly Member James Ramos, whose words inspired all in attendance. Our students took center stage, proudly representing the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC), the Department of American Indian Studies, and the American Indian Student Alliance. Students and faculty were enthusiastic in sharing their experiences and learning oppertunities with everyone." - CICSC November 2023 Newsletter
Orange Shirt Day
- October
Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration Week
Cultural Tabling
October 9th
12-1PM
USU PlazaPowwow Dance Exhibition
October 10th
12-1PM
USU PlazaStudent Org Market
October 12th
12-1PM
USU Plaza
Unveiling of the Indigenous Climate and Environmental Collaborative (ICEC)
On this Indigenous Peoples Day 2023, The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) proudly unveils its latest initiative, the Indigenous Climate and Environmental Collaborative (ICEC). At its core, the ICEC is dedicated to integrating Indigenous knowledge into the broader spectrum of climate and environmental research and advocacy. By doing so, we aim to promote a comprehensive and inclusive approach to environmental care that resonates with various communities. Keep an eye out for more insights and a deeper dive into the collaborative's mission, vision, and objectives.
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day honors and recognizes the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous people. Here's a list of 10 ways you might consider celebrating and acknowledging the day:
- Educate Yourself and Others
- Support Indigenous Artists and Businesses
- Participate in Events
- Engage in Cultural Experiences
- Cook Indigenous Fooda
- Support Indigenous Activism
- Land Acknowledgment
- Respectful Visits to Indigenous Sites
- Raise Awareness
- Donate to Indigenous Organizations
Cultural Tabling
Our AIAN students made a wonderful display of different components that represent the diverse culture of different tribes. They displayed language, our past cultural events, and even a display of regalia. What a wonderful way to kick off our week of events.
American Indian Student Alliance
Beadwork Sale
Come and support the American Indian Student Alliance on various days throughout the month of October. Check out the inventory of beadwork from out talented AISA members!
- October Sale Days:
- 9th, 10th, 12th, 30th
- Event Flyer
Ribbon Skirt Workshop
with Mejaumi Rosales
Join us for a crafting experience where our skilled instructor will guide you step by step in creating your very own ribbon shirt or skirt.
Register to attend.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and leave with a one-of-a-kind cretion that you can proudly call your own!
- October 16th and 17th
- 11am - 2 pm
- SBSB 1118 (CICSC)
- November
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month!
Events run November 1-30th.
Special Premiere Screening of...
Native America Season 2: Episode 3- Women Rule
The event will take place on November 1st at 6pm at the CSUSM USU Ballroom! There will be a Q&A with Q&A w/Arigon Starr (Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma), Ruth Buffalo(Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation), Betty Osceola (Miccosukee Tribe), Jennifer Johns (Diné), Paige Bethmann (Mohawk/Oneida) followed by a reception.
Tukwut Coloring Contest
Anyone can participate! Winner will receive a prize.
- November 1st-15th: Color Your Pages
- November 16th-29th: Instagram Votng Begins
- November 30th: Winner Declared
- Event Flyer
Read A Native American Childrens Book Day
Decolonize and Indigenize Your Reading. For a full book list visit caindianeducationforall.com
Storytelling with Dr. Stan Rodriguez
We're throwing a fantastic night just for you! Enjoy delicious snacks, piping hot drinks, and the captivating allure of traditional Kumeyaay stories. See you there!
All are welcome!
- November 7th, 2023
- 5:30-7:30PM
- Serenity Circle
- Event Pictures
Honor Our American Indian Veteran Day
Kumeyaay Bingo Night
With Miss Kumeyaay
Come play bingo while learning some Kumeyaay language.
Snacks, drinks, prizes!- November 9th, 2023
- 5-7PM
- SBSB Courtyard
- Event Pictures
Tukwut Paint Night
Come out and choose of of the design templates to paint! All supplies are provided!
- November 14th, 2023
- 5-7PM
- SBSB Courtyard
Gourd Ornament Workshop
Come and decorate a mini gourd for the holiday season! All supplies provided!
- November 28, 2023
- 12-1PM
- SBSB Courtyard
Native American Heritage Night Basketball Game
Come to the first annual Native Heritage Night Basketball Game! There will be special halftime performances by Bird Singers and Dancers during the Women's and Men's games.
- November 30, 2023
- The Sports Center, CSUSM
Dr. Eric Tippeconnic Art Exhibit at the Sasse Museum of Art
Sustained Resilience
Join us on November 18th from 2pm-4pm at the Sasse Museum of Art for an artist talk and reception with the displayed artwork of Dr. Eric Tippeconnic with featured artists Monica Zavala and Karma Henry. This is an event you won’t want to miss for Native American Heritage Month!
Artists: Dr. Eric Tippeconnic - Comanche Nation | Monica Zavala - Tonga & Acjachemen | Karma Henry - Paiute/Italian/Portuguese
Bird Dancers: Virginia Aguilar - Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians & Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians | Alexandra Valle - Kumeyaay | Kiara Love Flores - Kuupangaxwichem - Northern Ute | Mejaumi Rosales - Torres Martinez - Desert Cahuilla
Bird Singers: Angel Jimenez - Kumeyaay | Jesus Jimenez - Kumeyaay
Exhibit: Nov 10th - Dec 23rd, 2023
Artist's Talk & Reception November 18th 2-4pm
2022
- January
Native Ways of Knowing Webinar Series
Supporting Literacy and Culturally Responsive Instruction for Native American Students
Join Dr. Debbie Reese in a FREE Native Ways of Knowing Webinar Series. K-12 educators, administrators, librarians, and tribal education staff are invited to learn from Dr. Debbie Reese in a six-session series to access free culturally responsive resources to improve representations and classroom climates for teaching and learning about California's first peoples.
Native Knowledge ~ Innovative ~ Place-Based Learning ~ Collaborative ~ Liberatory Design
Feb. 9 - Selecting and Using Educational Materials about Indigenous Peoples
Feb. 15 - Teaching California Missions
March 1 - Teaching Traditional Ecological Knowledge: We Are Water Protectors
March 15 - Teaching the Gold Rush
March 29 - Teaching American Indian Boarding Schools
April 12 - Native Activism and Changemakers: Alcatraz - February
Visit by Quannah Chasinghorse and D’Pharoh Woon-A-Tai
"On February 10, 2022, model and land activist Quannah Chasinghorse and Actor D’Pharoah Woon-A-Tai from the Peabody Award winning TV series Reservation Dogs visited the CICSC and spoke with CICSC student assistants and AISA members." - CICSC 2021-22 Newsletter
Screening of Raoul Peck’s HBO Docuseries, CSUSM USU Ballroom & Virtual, FREE for Students
Exterminate All the Brutes, Episode One
Screening Episode One of Raoul Peck's epic 4-part HBO docuseries, Exterminate All the Brutes, Peck's latest film. A Panel discussion will follow the screening, featuring:
- Dr. Joely Proudfit (Dept. Chair and Professor of American Indian Studies; Director of California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center)
- Dina Gilo-Whitaker (Lecturer of American Indian Studies; Consultant & Educator in Environmental Justice Policy Planning)
- Dr. Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz (Historian & Activist; Author of An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States)
- Dr. Kyle Mays (Assistant Professor of African American Studies, American Indian Studies, and History at UCLA)
- Dr. Alyssa Goldstein Sepinwall (Professor of History at CSUSM)
- April
2022 California's American Indian and Indigenous Film Festival
- Event Flyer
- Event Pictures
American Indian Student Alliance: Student Organization of the Year
"For the 2021/2022 academic year, the American Indian Student Alliance was awarded Student Organization of the Year out of the 129 student organizations that exist at California State University San Marcos...All members were invited to attend the event held Thursday, April 7, 2022, where we connected with other award nominees and had the opportunity to chat with campus leadership. We are honored that our community events, fundraising eforts and campus recruitment were recognized and set the standard for other organizations to follow in the years to come." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
Interested In College? Event
Come meet current CSU San Marcos students to talk about college and what CSUSM has to offer! Friday April 8th 12:30 pm
AISA at Cougar Blue Days
"On April 16, 2022, the American Indian Student Alliance participated in the university’s frst inperson Cougar Blue Days since 2019. According to the CSUSM website, Cougar Blue Days is a campus wide open house event held for newly admitted students and their families. As one of the student life organizations on campus, AISA was asked to participate in engaging incoming students in conversations of how to get involved on campus outside of the classroom environment. Members passed out brochures on information about AISA, spotlight our recent accomplishment of obtaining the Student Organization of the Year award, and identify the existence of an American Indian Studies department on campus as well." - CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- May
AISA Presents
Spring Beadwork Sale
Support AISA and it's members by purchasing student made beaded crafts, perfect for spring or as a gift for mom!
May 3, 2022 during U-Hour @ the USU PLAZA
Eric Tippeconnic's Exhibit,
"Our Existence Is Our Resistance"
Through his collaboration with the CSUSM Library to produce work for their annual Context Exhibit Series, Tippeconnic, who is Comanche, decided to pay tribute to the land and the people of Southern California. His art displays an appreciation and recognition for the local tribal communities and their traditions. With his vibrant use of colors and distinct style you are not only seeing the work, but rather you are immersed in the songs and stories of these bird singers and bird dancers.
With such a prestigious reputation that precedes him, we are honored to have Tippeconnic as a colleague, mentor and member of our AIS family here at the California State University San Marcos. We are grateful for the opportunities he has brought to our campus and specifically those he has afforded to our students. In his desire to include our American Indian students for this exhibit, Tippeconnic has surpassed the standard for what it means to engage his community. His exhibit, Our Existence is Our Resistance, will be on display through Summer 2022 in Kellogg Library on the third floor.
2022 American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony
- August
Tule Boat Launch With Dr. Stan Rodriguez
"On August 27, 2022, the students, staff, and faculty were invited to join Dr. Stan Rodriguez and other community members to help construct and launch over 50 traditionally made tule boats in the bay by Silver Strand Beach in Coronado. Throughout the year Dr. Rodriguez gathers volunteers to harvest tule and yucca to make these hand-crafted boats. This is a yearly event that Dr. Rodriguez coordinates and every year it becomes a bigger event with more people and more tule boats." - CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- Read more in the CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- September
California Native American Day
Celebrate on September 23, 2022 by....
Watching, Listening, Learning, Practicing
Engage in our discussion on, "Academic Colonialism and the Erasure of American Indian Students"
Orange Shirt Day
- October
San Manuel College Fair
"On October 1, 2022, at the community center park, The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians hosted approximately 20 different higher education centers to help promote the next step for juniors and seniors of San Manuel. We gave students information about Cal State San Marcos in hopes that they further their education here. Also, during this event we were able to communicate with the other colleges, such as UCLA, UCR, UCSD, and many more, in hopes to possibly collaborate in the future for more outreach events." - CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
Indigenous Peoples' Day/Week Teach-In
There are some great opportunities to participate in this week for Indigenous People’s Day!
Oct 10 -- Join us for a watch party on Indigenous Peoples' Day for the Premier of NETFLIX's Spirit Rangers -- Native American siblings, Kodi, Summer and Eddy, have a secret: They're "Spirit Rangers" who help protect the national park they call home!
Oct 12 -- National Indigenous Peoples' Day Teach-In -- Engage and learn from Spirit Ranger's Creator and Showrunner, Karissa Valencia (Santa Ynez Chumash) and Native Production Consultant, Dr. Joely Proudfit (Payómkawichum). Learn about instructional resources that support place-based learning.
Oct 13 -- California Native American Studies Model Curriculum -- Native American Studies Model Curriculum Guiding Leaders from SDCOE and CIEFA will provide an introduction/overview of tribally-driven curriculum project and share upcoming community engagement opportunities.
Discover CSUSM
We are live here at Discover CSUSM! Come stop by our table and we are also hosting an open house in SB1118.
AISA Beading Workshop
"One thing the AISA students like to do to create new connections are workshops that CICSC and AISA curate. Beading is an indigenous artform and one of the traditions we like to keep alive. We continue to teach and guide those who have never done any type of beading. We also give the opportunity for others to share their knowledge with the group. On October 18, 2022, the AISA Students gathered for a beading lesson on how to make lanyard wristlets. These workshops are important because after teaching this artform, we can use our beading skills for fundraising events. Fundraising helps AISA host more of these events and provide more supplies for their projects." - CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- Event Picture
- Read more in the CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- November
Native American Heritage Month Events
Events Include:
- Community Coloring Contest (Nov. 1-30)
- Community Beading Workshop (Nov. 8)
- Rock your Mocs (Nov. 13-19)
- Storytelling with Dr. Stan Rodriguez (Nov. 15)
- Blood Quantum Movie Night (Nov. 18)
- Native Dance Exhibition (Nov. 29)
- Event Flyer
- Event Pictures
- View Event Descriptions in the CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
Community Coloring Contest
Color through Nov. 1st-15th and voting is between 16-30th. Winner selected will win beadwork from one of our talented AISA members.
Community Beading Workshop
Join us at the USU Plaza for a tutorial beading project during U-hour.
Rock Your Mocs
Spirit week during the days of Nov. 13-19th.
A positive opportunity to be united and celebrate tribal individuality by wearing moccasins. We honor our ancestors, and Indigenous peoples worldwide, during Rock Your Mocs events and commemorate National Native American Heritage Month.
Storytelling with Dr. Stan Rodriguez
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to listen in on our yearly Storytelling with Dr. Stan Rodriguez as he tells a traditional Kumeyaay story.
MOVIE NIGHT
Screening of Blood Quantum
We will be in the USU ballroom screening the movie production of the late Jeff Barnaby.
Native Dance Exhibition
Meet us at the Kellogg Plaza where we invite hoop dancers to perform during U-hour.
"On November 29th, 2022, to end Native American Heritage month we invited the whole campus to join us at the Kellogg Plaza to engage in our Native Dance Exhibition. Nanabah Kadenehii (Diné), of Big Mountain, Arizona, told a story through hoop dancing. In parts of this dance the hoops were arranged to mimic various subjects such as birds, butterflies and other animals." - CICSC 2022/2023 Newsletter
- December
California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival Presents
Bear Grease Christmas Special
Bear Grease Christmas Special is a hilarious indigenous twist on the film and musical Grease - a 1978 American romantic comedy film based on the 1971 musical of the same name by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey.
2021
- May
2021 American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony
Also Honoring Class of 2020 Graduates!
Indigenous Voices: Authentic Children's Literature in the Classroom and Library
Join San Diego County Office of Education, The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center, and California Indian Education for All on May 25 & 26 for Indigenous Voices and learn from some of the biggest names in children's literature with free, virtual sessions. On May 25, Debbie Reese, Traci McClellan-Sorell, Christine Day Books, Dawn Axness Quigley, Patricia Buckley, and on May 26 speaking with us will be Anton Treuer, Darci Little Badger, Arigon Starr, and Naomi Bishop.
- July
California Community Colleges "Train the Trainer" Workshop
Free Cash for College "Train the Trainer" Workshop with Special Focus on Helping American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) Students Complete the FAFSA and California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
- August
Welcome Back Social
"On August 4, 2021, the CICSC and American Indian Studies (AIS) department held a Welcome Back social for new and returning AIAN students at CSUSM. CICSC staf gave a beautiful and formal tour of the CICSC and enjoyed conversation with the students over lunch. Afer the luncheon, students were invited to be part of a photoshoot for future use including the Indigenous Pathways Success Guide." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
- September
Welcome Back Luncheon
"On September 14, 2021, the CICSC and AIS department held their annual Welcome Back Luncheon for all incoming and returning AIAN students at CSUSM. CICSC and AIS faculty and staff were in attendance to welcome students and answer any questions about the upcoming semester." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
Distinguished Lecture Series
Academic Colonialism and the Erasure of American Indian
StudentsThis presentation will identify challenges and obstacles which limits equity, engagement, and American Indian student success. American Indian Studies faculty will help CSUSM identify tools and processes for Al/AN student achievement, raising awareness about the ways colonial structures and logics are inadvertently reproduced in academic institutions at the expense of American Indian students.
Featuring:
- Dr. Joely Proudfit PhD (Luiseño/Payomkawichum)
- Eric Tippeconnic, PhD (Comanche)
- Dina Gilio-Whitaker (Colville Confederated Tribes)
- Stanley Rodriguez, EdD (Kumeyaay-lipay, Santa Ysabel)
- John Tippeconnic III, PhD (Comanche/Cherokee)
- Eric Trevan, PhD (Match-E-Be-Nash-She Wish Band of Potawatomi Indians, Gun Lake Tribe)
Orange Shirt Day
September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation also referred to as Orange Shirt Day. The day is intended to raise awareness and honor the stolen children and Survivors of violent carceral institutions aka residential schools, their families and communities. The annual Orange Shirt Day on September 30th is an opportunity for a global conversation on all aspects of Residential Schools and Boarding Schools.
- October
California Indian Education for All
Educators Guide to Teach Indigenous Peoples' Day Oct 11, 2021
The resources will support educators to provide access for culturally-relevant and respectful learning experiences in the classroom. Utilize these resources in the continuous journey to decolonize classrooms by creating spaces that are inclusive, respectful, and honor Indigenous Peoples.
AIS & CICSC Offer Ways You Can Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Week in 2021
MONDAY: Visit the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center's website (www.csusm.edu/cicsc). Read the land acknowledgement toolkit and learn about whose land you are currently guests on and ways to support the people whose lands you live, work, and play on. Take time to learn about the people, government, languages and cultures around you from the people. Visit tribal websites.
• Oct 11 ALL DAY: Virtual Event - EXTERMINATE ALL THE BRUTESTUESDAY: Attend a learning webinar from Indigenous peoples
• Oct 12 7PM ET (4PM PT): "Imagining the Indian*: The Growing Movement to Retire Native "Themed" Mascots
• Oct 12 4PM ET (1PM PT): KeyNote Presentation by Dina Gilio-Whitaker
• Oct 12 11:30AM PT: CSUSM American Indian Studies Major/Minor Fair with American Indian StudiesWEDNESDAY: Learn about Indigenous Sports
• ND Sports (http://www.ndnsports.com/)THURSDAY: Virtually visit a museum collection/site
• California Indian Museum & Cultural Center (cimcc.org)
• National Museum of the American Indian (americanindian.si.edu)FRIDAY: Read books written by Indigenous Authors
• AIL lamericanindiansinchildrensliterature.blogspot.com)SATURDAY: Indigenize Your Diet
• Indigenize your diet while watching a documentary (https://visionmakermedia.org/indigenouspeoples-2021/)
• I-Collective (https://www.icollectiveinc.org/)
• The Sioux Chef (https://sioux-chef.com/community/)
• Indigenous Food Sovereignty Sources Guide
(https://www.firstnations.org/publications/indigenous-food-sovereignty-sources-guide/
• American Indian Health & Diet Recipes (https://aihd.ku.edu/recipes/index.html)SUNDAY: Shop from Indigenous Retailers
• Beyond Buckskin Buy Native List (http://www.beyondbuckskin.com/p/buy-native.html)
AISA’s “Get To Know Us” Table Event
"AISA’s “get to know us” table event today (10/19) to let people on campus know WE EXIST & WE ARE STILL HERE" - AISA Facebook
Beading Workshop
"On October 21, 2021, Sonya Flores from the Kuupangaxwichem and Northern Ute tribe, was welcomed to the CICSC to share Native American beading with AIAN students. Sonya spent the whole day working with students on how to bead medallions, earrings, and much more." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
- November
Native American Heritage Month Upcoming Events
- Storytelling Under the Stars With For Dr. Stan Rodriguez
- All Day Reservation Dogs Marathon
- CICSC 10th Anniversary Reception
- The Thanksgiving Play
- Rock Your Mocs
10-Year CICSC Anniversary Reception
"On November 17, 2021, the CICSC held its 10-year anniversary reception and in attendance were CSUSM President Neufeldt, faculty, staff, students, tribal community members and steering committee members. Dr. Joely Proudft, CICSC Director, said a few words about the accomplishments of the CICSC since opening its doors in 2011. Bird singers closed out the reception with a few bird songs." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
Storytelling Under the Stars with Dr. Stan Rodriguez
"On November 9, 2021, AISA hosted “Story Time with Dr. Stan Rodrigez” outside of the SBS building in the serenity circle. The event started at 5pm and provided snacks and cofee. Dr. Stan Rodrigez told Kumeyaay stories and had words of encouragement for students. The stories that Dr. Rodriguez had told carried deep meanings, such as a coyote story which was about being yourself. The event ended with a traditional prayer and sage smudging to bless the people who showed up." - CICSC Newsletter 2021-22
The Thanksgiving Play by LarissaHorse
Written by Larissa FastHorse | Directed by Michael Garcia | Co-sponsored by the CICSC
Good intentions collide with absurd assumptions in Larissa FastHorse's wickedly funny satire, as a troupe of terminally "woke" teaching artists scrambles to create a pageant that somehow manages to celebrate both Turkey Day and Native American Heritage Month.
OPENING NIGHT NOVEMBER 17TH
CICSC 10 Year Anniversary Reception
6 PM I SBSB 1118 & CourtyardCLOSING NIGHT NOVEMBER 20TH
Closing Night Reception
6 PM I ARTS 111 Lobby
Immediately following the performance, Q&A with Kenny Ramos (Kumeyaay), Executive Executive Director of the CICSC California Indian Performing Arts Collaborative
2020
- February
2020 California's American Indian and Indigenous Film Festival
- June
American Indian Studies Department at CSUSM and the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center Stand In Solidarity with Black Lives Matter
The American Indian Studies Department at CSUSM and the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center lock arms in solidarity with BLACK LIVES MATTER and all Black people within and outside our institution against the ongoing inflicting of systematic inequities wrought by the twin historical processes of colonialism and slavery.
The California State University system is the largest University system in the nation and we know a better world is possible. AlS and CICSC is committed to continuing our efforts to diversify the curriculum systemwide, but more importantly we must continue to demand resources to support our students and programs. We stress that this can best be accomplished through the cluster hiring of faculty of color who represent those communities most impacted by 500 years of physical and structural violence in the U.S. Our diverse student bodies need to see themselves reflected in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to teach, administer, and lead our institutions into a transformed future.
We uplift BLACK LIVES MATTER and the movement for structural and systemic transformation. We reaffirm our commitment to work tirelessly side by side with our Black brothers and sisters in our shared project to abolish white supremacy, settler colonialism and heteropatriarchy.
- September
CICSC Takes Lead On Survey About Education System Inequities for California AIAN Students During COVID-19
According to Dr. Joely Proudfit in the CSUSM NewsCenter article, "The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center was proud to take the lead on this survey...COVID-19 has made visible the structural inequities that plague our education systems, and nowhere is that more evident than within our California AIAN student populations. We look forward to working with educators, policymakers, parents and advocates to address the inequities and better serve our AIAN K-12 students in California."
To Celebrate California Indian Day, California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival Presents an Exclusive Virtual Screening of...
Gather
Let's GATHER today today for an exclusive free screening of Gather tonight at 6pm followed by panel discussion with Director Sanjay Rawal, Nephi Craig (@nephi.craig), Twila Cassadore (@tcassadore), Sammy Gensaw (@sammyGensaw), with performance by Raye Zaragoza and special message from Jason Momoa.
- October
Celebrate Indigenous People's day with us!
Indigenize Your Diet: Let's Cook Together!
Join us for a lunchtime cooking segment as we prepare Quail & Mushrooms Stew and Rosehip Tea. Oct. 12, 2020 from 12pm - 1pm. Join via Zoom.
The Cross Cultural Center presents: Academe & Me
Dragons & Snakes with Dr. Eric Tippeconnic
Dragons & Snakes with Dr. Eric Tippeconnic, Assistant Professor in American Indian Studies. The revitalized series title, Academe & Me, formally known as Tukwut Talks: Conversations with Faculty, will host Dr. Tippeconnic on Thursday, October 1st at 12pm.
Ways You Can Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day Virtually in 2020
- Visit the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center's website. Read the land acknowledgement toolkit and learn about whose land you are currently guests on and ways to support rhe people whose lands you live, work, and play on. Take ime to learn about the people, government, languages and cultures around you from the people. Visit tribal websites.
- Listen to a Native American Podcast
- Watch a film or video at Vision Maker Media
- Listen and learn about Indigenous musicians
- Learn about Indigenous Sports
- Listen and Learn from Indigenous Comedians
- Virtually visit a museum collection/site
- Read books written by Indigenous Authors
- Indigenize Your Diet
- Attend a learning webinar from Indigenous peoples
- Shop from Indigenous Retailers
- Donate to Native American and Indigenous Charities
- November
American Indian Studies Professor Eric Tippeconnic Honored as a CHABSS Voices “Borders, Boundaries & Colonization” Winner
The CHABSS Dean’s Pick (Faculty Winner) was “Cahuilla Bird Dancer,” submitted by American Indian Studies Professor Eric Tippeconnic. - The Cougar Chronicle, California State University San Marcos
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- Artwork Image - “Cahuilla Bird Dancer” by Professor Eric Tippeconnic
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month
Let's learn, listen and lift up our Native voices. Broadcast premiere of Without A Whisper on PBS with online streaming available! Explore the untold story of how Indigenous women influenced the early suffragists in their fight for freedom and equality. Check your local listings to watch Without A Whisper or view it streaming TODAY at https://www.pbs.org/video/without-a-whisper-konnonkwe-bcobte/
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2019
- January
Swearing In of Deb Haaland and Sharice Davids into Congress
Mary Ann Martin Andreas, Morongo Tribal Council, and Dr. Joely Proudfit, Luiseño, attended the Swearing-In Ceremony of Deb Haaland and Sharice Davids into Congress.
- February
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis Visits the CICSC
- April
"As Long As Grass Grows" Book Signing
Dina Gilio-Whitaker, Professor in American Indian Studies at Cal State University San Marcos, is scheduled to lecture and sign her latest book "As Long As Grass Grows."
About The Book: The story of Native peoples' resistance to environmental injustice and a call for environmentalists to learn from the Indigenous community's rich history of activism. Through the unique lens of "Indigenized environmental justice," Indigenous researcher and activist Dina Gilio-Whitaker explores the fraught history of struggles for food and water security, and protection of sacred sites, while highlighting the important leadership of Indigenous women in this centuries-long resistance to government and corporate incursions.
- May
2019 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
Congratulations to our 2019 American Indian Graduates.
Rachelle Pederson (Soboba), first AIS graduate, kicked off the entire graduation. One graduation down several more to go. Emily Ramirez received her MA in History! Nick Lozano received BA in Arts & Technology. We are also all so very proud of Conner Whitten from Pechanga who received CSUSM highest academic achievement: President's Outstanding Graduate. Super proud of them all! - August
2019 American Indian Education for All Conference: CALL TO ACTION
Engage in dynamic professional learning around building more culturally responsive systems, schools, and classrooms in the 2nd annual American Indian Education for All Conference. Join teams of preschool, K-12, college and university teachers, counselors and administrators at this one-day event from the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) at Cal State San Marcos in partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) and the Pala Band of Mission Indians. The theme for the American Indian Education for All Conference is Call to Action. It is led by Drs. Joely Proudfit (CICSC), Olympia Kyriakidis (SDCOE), Linda Sue Warner(CICSO, and Jag Lathan (SCOE).
KEYNOTE SPEAKER & BOOK SIGNING: Dr. Debbie Reese (Nambe Owingeh), Founder, American Indians in Children's Literature (AICL)
From the CICSC Facebook: We were thrilled that Debbie Reese did her first book signing with us. Thank you to our partners and speakers. We had great discussions and ideas for call to action in American Indian education.
- October
The Indigenous Peoples Day Teach-In
Hear Indigenous History, Honor Indigenous Presence!
"TeachRock in partnership with Rezolution Pictures, The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) and National Indian Education Association (NIEA) is pleased to announce The Indigenous Peoples Day Teach-In scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, 2019.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day recognizes that Native people are the first inhabitants of the Americas, and it asks all Americans to reconsider the history of their country from that perspective. The TeachRock RUMBLE lesson plans bring Indigenous Peoples Day to life in the classroom through music and video from the documentary RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked The World, helping teachers introduce students of all ages to Native American history, perspectives, and issues." - Event Press Release
2019 Indigenous Peoples' Day
2018
- January
PL-280 Course at Riverside Sheriffs' Association
PL280: Understanding Tribal Jurisdiction Two-Day Class scheduled for January 29-30, 2018 at Riverside Sheriff's Association.
- March
Informational Sessions For The...
Grow Our Own Professional Development Project for American Indian Teachers & School Administrators
Pala Band of Mission Indians in partnership with California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center seeks 12 Native American students for the Grow Our Own Professional Development Project for American Indian Teachers and School Administrators funded by a grant from the US Department of Education - Office of Indian Education.
12 Native American Teacher/ Administrator Full-time Students attending CSU San Marcos will be awarded
• 100% tuition/ fees paid
• $500/month living stipend
• Computer or Laptop
• Professional Development Support
• Job Placement - April
CSUSM Discovery Day
What a great Saturday we had at CSUSM Discovery Day! Teaching students about the American Indian Studies and Resources they are able to obtain.
Discover CSUSM is a perfect opportunity for prospective and newly admitted students, families, and anyone interested in learning about CSUSM to see the campus up close, explore our academic colleges and programs, talk with current students about their own experiences and see why Cal State San Marcos is the premier university of the region.
Screening of Marathon for Justice: An Environmental Justice Movie
12th Annual Dream The Impossible Youth Conference For Middle and High School Native American Students April 21, 2018
Workshop Topics: Culture, Health Careers, Tribal Government, Music Industry, Art, MMA and Physical Health, Collegiate Athletics
CSUSM American Indian Student Alliance and California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival Presents
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Awareness Day
Join Us for an Action at the ASU Lawn, a Live Painting with Dr. Eric Tippeconnic (Comanche), and a Call to Action for the MMIW Movement And Special Screening of the Film Wind River at 6 pm with Special Guest Dr. Juana Majel Dixon (Luiseño, Pauma Traditional Legislative Council)
Thank you to all of those that attended and made this event a successful one!
PL-280 Course at Riverside Sheriffs' Association
Understanding Tribal Jurisdiction Two-Day Class - April 2018
- May
2018 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
- June
2018 American Indian Education for All Conference: Indigenizing the Classroom
The CICSC hosted the first annual Indian Education for All Conference on June 1 & 2, 2018 at the Pala Casino Spa and Resort. This conference was for preschool, K-12, college and university teachers, counselors, and administrators. Through presentations, workshops and sharing current best practices, the CICSC is partnered with The San Diego Department of Education and the Pala Band of Mission Indians to provide professional development for educators of American Indian/Alaska Native students.Event Description:Engage in dynamic professional learning around building more culturally responsive systems, schools, and classrooms in the inaugural American Indian Education for All Conference. Join teams of preschool, K-12, college and university teachers, counselors and administrators at this new, two-day event from the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) at Cal State San Marcos in partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education and the Pala Band of Mission Indians. The theme for the American Indian Education for All Conference is Indigenizing the Classroom. It is led by Drs. Joely Proudfit, Olympia Kyriakids, Linda Sue Warner, and Julie Goldman.FEATURED SPEAKERS
• Nicole Myers-Lim (Pomo), Executive Director, California Indian Museum and Cultural Center
• Mandy Broaddus (Assiniboine and Sioux), Director of Indian Education, Montana State Department of Education
• Mike Jetty (Spirit Lake Dakota), Curriculum Specialist, Montana State Department of Education
• John W. Tippeconnic, III (Comanche), Professor Emeritus and Former Director of the American Indian Studies Program, Arizona State University - September
National Indian Gaming Association in collaboration with California's American Indian and Indigenous Film Festival Presents...
20th Anniversary Screening of Smoke Signals
The California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center is proud to partner with the National Indian Gaming Association on this 20th Anniversary Screening of Smoke Signals on September 26 at the Pechanga Resort & Casino, followed by a Q&A with director Chris Eyre and cast.
Movie Description: Smoke Signals explores the relationship between Thomas Builds-the-Fire and Victor Joseph, two young men growing up on the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation. After the death of Victor's father, Victor and Thomas embark on a road trip to retrieve his father's ashes and bring them back home. This journey filled with conflict and redemption becomes a light for the two young men to forgive and honor what it means to be Native American.
Signing of AB1248 and CA Education Code Amendment Video
We are so happy that Governor Brown signed AB1248 allowing our native student to wear their eagle feathers at graduation. We are especially proud of our CSU San Marocs students led by Laila Basquez (Luiseño) who produced this CA Education Code Amendment video to help people understand this legislative effort. Thank you all who worked on this. With a special thanks to CILS and Assembly Member Todd Gloria.
- November
2018 California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival
- December
Swearing-In Ceremony for Assemblyman James Ramos
Congratulations to Assemblyman James Ramos, first California Indian to be elected to the state of California legislature. Mary Ann Martin Andreas, Morongo Tribal Council, and Dr. Joely Proudfit, Luiseño, attended the Swearing-In Ceremony.
- Event Pictures
- Event Social Media Content - Video #1, Video #2
2017
- January
Sundance Film Festival
"The CICSC and its associated California American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival (CAIIFF) were well represented at the Sundance Film Festival this past January. In attendance were two of the board members of the CAIIFF, CICSC director Dr. Joely Proudfit and filmmaker Chris Eyre. Native films/film makers were a highlight of Sundance this year, with the premiere of Michelle Latimer's Standing Rock documentary. Chairman Dave Archambault and Shailene Woodley were also guest speakers at the festival this year." - CICSC Newsletter Jan/Feb 2017
- February
San Manuel Visit
"On February 7th, representatives of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians paid a visit to the CICSC. San Manuel has been the biggest contributor to the center and plays a pinnacle role in keeping our doors open. Students of the American Indian Student Alliance and student workers at the CICSC shared lunch with the representatives and expressed their immense gratitude for the tribe's generosity. Director Joely Proudfit also showcased to them the "thank vou" video that the students put together for the tribe. Thank you to the San Manuel Band for keeping our center open!" - CICSC Newsletter Jan/Feb 2017
- March
California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival Presents...
Standing Rock Screening
CAIIFF brought filmmaker and director extraordinaire Michelle Latimer (Métis/Algonquin) to Cal State San Marcos on Monday, March 6th, to screen her two films on Sacred Water: Standing Rock Part I & Red Power: Standing Rock Part II. With a packed house and some audience members sitting on the floor to see these powerful films. It was an amazing and emotional screening followed by a lively Q&A with director Michelle Latimer.
- May
2017 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
- August
Dorothy Ramon Learning Center's 14th Annual Dragonfly Gala
Congratulations to Dragonfly Award winners Marigold Linton and Joely Proudfit! Dorothy Ramon Learning Center's 14th annual Dragonfly Gala.
- September
Speaking Engagement with Dr. Lori Arviso Alvord
First Navajo Woman Surgeon, Dr. Lori Arivso gave a presentation at #CSUSM on Tuesday that inspired students from 6th grade to graduate school. She validated native people's traditional practices with neuroscience and instilled pride in the American Indian people. It is an honor to have her share with us at Cal State University San Marcos.
"Ceremonies work at multiple levels, but primarily they heal the mind, which helps to heal the body. Chant, song, prayer, and guided imagery are used, in an elaborate form of mind-body medicine. Subsistence living and environmental sustainability principles are also found in ceremony teachings, and are examples of how interconnection can promote sustainability theory and teach humans a way of living that honors and protects our natural world." - LORI ARVISO ALVORD
- November
2017 California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival
California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival & The Native Networkers Present
Exclusive Screening of Hostiles
An exclusive screening of HOSTILES at 7:30pm at Pechanga Resort & Casino!! Q&A with Director Scott Cooper and stars Wes Studi and Q'orianka Kilcher.
2016
- February
PL-280 Course at Pala Casino Resort Spa
"The 2-day course, Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands: A User-friendly PL-280 Course, was held February 3-4, 2016. It was hosted by the Pala Band of Mission Indians at the Pala Casino Resort Spa. We had a great turnout and filled the class to capacity. There were fifty individuals, representing a diverse combination of tribal and state public safety and service provider entities, from various locations throughout Southern California. This diversity allowed for participants to gain much from each other." - Cindy Pierce, CICSC Newsletter February/March 2016
- April
NEH Workshop
We had a great turnout for the first Bridging the Gap workshop. Thank you to all the participants for your stories, ideas and input. We look forward to seeing everyone in June. The "Bringing the Gap Between the Academy and American Indians: Building a 21st Century American Indian Studies Program" has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence.
CICSC Golf Tournament
"This year the California Indian Culture Sovereignty & Center's Annual Golf Tournament was held on Friday, April 15. Community members, tribal leaders, athletes, and celebrities joined us for a day at Pechanga Journey Golf Course. Here we held breakfast and lunch, all-day 2 Tournament 2016 golf, and raffled off prizes such as a football signed by professional NFL athletes. The American Indian Student Alliance council members were also present to help assist and coordinate the event." - Emilee Ramirez (Pala), CICSC Newsletter May/June 2016
- May
2016 American Indian Graduate Honoring Ceremony
"The American Indian Graduation and Honoring Ceremony was held in the USU Ballroom on Friday, May 6th. At the CICSC, we implemented a "hooding" ceremony at which we ask tribal leaders to help us bestow handcrafted Pendleton stoles upon our graduates; the graduates wear the stoles over their robes as they walk in the campus-wide graduation ceremony to distinguish themselves as American Indian/Alaska Native among the multitude of other graduates." - Ernestina Martinez (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter September/October 2016
- June
Release of...
The State of American Indian and Alaskan Native (AIAN) Education in California 2016
The 2016 report is the third and final publication supported by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. This report provides a case study for the creation of a 21st century model to recruit, retain, serve, and graduate American Indian students from a public university. In addition, the 2016 report updates all the import K-16 data we reported on in previous publications. We also "mapped" for the first time the K-12 data about high school graduation rates, dropout rates, and student completion of A-G requirements for college entry. This feature is interactive when you click on the link in the report. Our goal is to provide our tribal educators, parents, and leaders with tools to develop their capacity to build educational infrastructure needed in their communities; and to have at their fingertips the facts to justify greater investment in AIAN education for their youth. - CICSC Website
- August
PL-280 Course in Shingle Springs
"On August 4 - 5th, the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians hosted our "Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands: A User-friendly PL280" class. The invitation was extended by AmyAnn Taylor, General Counsel to the Tribe. AmyAnn carved out time to attend the class as well as, the Tribe's Chief of Police, Kay Ida. Even Chairman Nicholas Fonseca took time from his busy schedule to greet the class and join in on some of our discussion." - Cindy Pierce, CICSC Newsletter July/August 2016
- September
2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference
Our director, Dr. Joely Proudfit, was invited to attend the 2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference. In attendance were representatives from all of the federally recognized tribes in the US. Also, in attendance were the heads of federal government cabinet officers including Secretary Jewell (Department of the Interior), Secretary King (Department of Education), Attorney General Lynch, Administrator McCarthy (Environmental Protection Agency), and President Obama.
#NoDAPL
The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center and the American Indian Student Alliance went out to San Diego last Friday to show support for our brothers and sisters in South Dakota. Water is precious!
Kumeyaay Bird Songs & Stories Under The Stars
"On Wednesday, September 21st, the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) and Office of the Tribal Liaison celebrated California Indian Day on the CSU San Marcos campus. The event was held at the Serenity Circle, located outside of the CICSC. Mr. Paul Cuero, Jr., a tribal member and Vice Chairman of the Campo Band of the Kumeyaay Nation sang bird songs and shared his wisdom through stories with the group. It was an evening to remember, filled with lots of laughter and empowerment." - Autumn Brown (Kumeyaay), CICSC Newsletter September/October 2016
- October
ImagineNATIVE 2016
"From October 17-21, CICSC staff members Megan Doughty and Miss Magooshboy attended imagineNATIVE in Toronto, Canada. At the festival, they saw a variety of the latest films in Indian Country and gained inspiration to incorporate some of programming into our American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival. They had the opportunity to meet various native celebrities and were provided training by imagineNATIVE staff and volunteers." - Carlos Morales, CICSC Newsletter September/October 2016
#RocktheVote Video Winners
"Members of American Indian Student Alliance and the staff at the CICSC entered a video contest hosted by the non-profit organization PUBLIC, in cooperation with socially conscious celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio. The #RocktheVote campaign urged students to exercise their civic duties and vote in the election. Our submission was awarded with a first place prize!" - CICSC Newsletter Jan/Feb 2017
- November
2016 California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival
- Event Flyer
- Event Program
- Event Recap Video - Short Version, Long Version
- Event Pictures
2015
- February - May
A CSUSM Social Justice Initiative to Stop Cultural Appropriation
Beyond the Stereotype Exhibit
Dr. Joely Proudfit initiated the "Beyond the Stereotype" poster campaign as a response to a troubling incident of cultural appropriation by CSUSM anthropology graduates.
The central objective of this campaign is to illuminate the intricate facets of cultural appropriation, while also shedding light on the detrimental impact of stereotypes. The campaign's images serve to challenge perceptions and preconceived notions about minority groups. Each poster features historical figures from these minority communities in the background, accompanied by biographical information.
Across the top of each poster, a powerful message reads, “There is more to me than what you see. Beyond the stereotype, there is history.” - CICSC Website
- February
Noli Indian School College Fair
"Representatives from California State University San Marcos and auxiliary universities in the area gathered on a beautiful Thursday morning to promote educational options for students at Noli Indian School's College Fair. Student
researchers from the CICSC and members of the American Indian Student Alliance (AISA) were also in atendance to answer questions and engage with students about college life and life after high school. Dr. Joely Proudfit gave an encouraging speech..." - Marjon Pino (Navaio), CICSC Newsletter March 2015
Conversations That Matter
Exploring Cultural (mis)Appropriation in the Classroom: Strategies for Facilitating Class Discussions
"On February 17th, CSUSM's Office of Diversity hosted its 7th Conversations That Matter Series event. The series focuses attention on topical issues relating to diversity, educational equity, and social justice. Alongside the recent unveiling of the "Beyond The Stereotype" exhibit, this event further continued the conversation of Cultural (mis)appropriation in the classroom and the strategies for facilitating class discussions." - Raffdazzel "Raffie" John (Oneida), CICSC Newsletter March 2015
Noli Indian School Visit to CSUSM
"On February 26th and 27th students from Noli Indian School were able to experience California State University San Marcos firsthand. Many in attendance were very excited and enthusiastic to be attending the circuit of activities provided and were also treated to a special presentation conferred by the Public Relations Club and Dr. Joely Proudfit. The students were then introduced and encouraged to emplore the center and engage with the student workers as well as professors." - Marjon Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter March 2015
American Indian College Fund Reception
"CSUSM Tribal Liaison Tishmall Turner and CICSC Director Dr. Joely Proudfit attended an afternoon educational reception hosted by the American Indian College Fund. The reception was titled "Tribal Colleges Matter: Native American Women Lift their Communities and Families through Community-Based Education."" - Ernestina Martinez (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter March 2015
- April
CICSC Benefit Golf Tournament
"On April 10th, Tribal leaders, professional athletes, actors, CSU Alumni and others gathered on a beautiful Friday morning to participate in the CICSC Golf Tournament hosted by the Pechanga Development Corporation. American Indian Student Alliance council members were also present to help assist and coordinate the event. The participation, support and donations that this event produced directly goes into promoting higher education and provides valuable resources that will greatly benefits students in their pursuit of their educational goals. CICSC and AISA would like to thank those that participated and assisted in making this event such a success." - Marjon Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter May 2015
A CICSC Certificate Program
PL-280: Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands
The CICSC delivered its first two-day course "Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands" which was a great success. Thank you to the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians for hosting the course.
Titled "Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands: A User-Friendly PL 280," this comprehensive training program is meticulously crafted to equip participants with a profound understanding of the historical, cultural, and legal intricacies involved in effective collaboration with tribal governments and communities for the successful implementation of public safety measures. - CICSC Website
Spring 2015 Guest Speakers in Dr. Proudfit’s class,
IMAGINING INDIANS: American Indians in Mass Media, Film and Society
Our students had the pleasure of meeting and discussing current topics with Young Writer, Director, and Actress Bella King, Artist, Author, Actor and Screen Actors Guild Board Member (Native American Task Force) Ruben CHATO Hinajosa, and Director, Producer, and Actor Randy Vasquez.
Native American Job Fair
"On April 18th, American Indian Student Alliance members and CICSC student assistants were present in San Marcos, CA, to promote higher education and vital resources at the 2015 Native American Career Fair. This event was sponsored by Nativehire.org and produced an abundance of opportunities for those looking for assistance in gaining employment." - Marjon Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter May 2015
- May
First Friday with Koshi Biggs
"On Friday May 1st, 2015, we had our last Frist Friday of the Spring semester. There were three birthdays to celebrate this month; it was a lot of fun with a great group of students, professors, staff and faculty members in attendance. We also had a special guest for this First Friday, Koshi Biggs. Koshi is a certified de-stressor dog who goes to nursing homes, memory care facilities, libraries, and in the week before finals Koshi visits universities. Since May is the month of finals, Koshi, came to help de-stress all the students and professors before final exams started." - Raffdazzel "Raffie" John (Oneida), CICSC Newsletter June 2015
2015 American Indian Graduation Ceremony
"On May 8th, 2015 friends, family, faculty, Tribal Leaders and California State University San Marcos President Dr.
Karen Havnes were among those present at the 2015 Native American Honoring Ceremony held inside the Social and Behavioral Sciences Building....The graduates were then presented a gift from California's 38th District Senator Joel Anderson, although he was not present. The Senator was able to provide the graduates with a certificate of recognition for all their hard work and accomplishments." - Marjon Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter June 2015
2015 Democratic State Convention
Students from CSUSMs American Indian Studnet Alliance attending the 2015 Democratic State Convention to present their GIS research to the Native American Democratic Caucus.
- July
PL-280 Course at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
The CICSC delivered another two-day course titled "Understanding Jurisdiction on Tribal Lands: A User-Friendly PL-280" which was a great success. This class had the largest number of participants than any other class we have held so far. Thank you to Tule River Tribe for hosting the course.
- September
Ishi: The Archive Performance
Starring James Luna with Sheila Tishla Skinner
"On September 12th, the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center and CSUSM Office of the Tribal Liaison had the privilege of hosting an amazing event by James Luna with Sheila Tishla Skinner in Ishi: The Archive Performance. The performance was open to the campus community, as well as the local and tribal community. Many tribal community members attended, among them were eight students from Sherman Indian High School." - Dancy Turner (Luiseño), CICSC Newsletter October 2015
- October
Conversations That Matter
Building Cultural Awareness About American Indian Protocols & Best Practices for Serving American Students
"On October 8, 2015 from 12-1:30, CICSC Director and AIS Department Chair Dr. Joely Proudfit; CSUSM Tribal Liaison Tishmall Turner; and current student and councilmember of the American Indian Student Alliance Michael Murphy participated in a panel for Conversations That Matter: Building Cultural Awareness About American Indian Protocols and Best Practices for Serving American Indian Students. It was a workshop intended for faculty, staff and students. They provided a general discussion about myths, facts, tribal sovereignty, cultural identity, and challenges that will help better serve American Indian and Alaskan Native (AIAN) students at CSUSM." - Ernestina Martinez (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter November/December 2015
Indigenous Peoples Day
California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center and the American Indian Student Alliance joins thousands to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day. This celebration reflects centuries of resiliency, vibrancy, and beauty that can now be shared with our youth.
- November
2015 California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival
2014
- May
InterTribal Sports Wellness Initiative / Community Forum
"On May 28, the CICSC facilitated the Inter Tribal Sports community forum "Dialogue for Development: A Community Based Approach to Combat Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes" in tribal youth." - CICSC Newsletter September 2014
2014 American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony
"On May 9, the CICSC hosted it's Annual American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony. Nine graduates, their family, the university president, and local tribal leaders attended the event." - CICSC Newsletter September 2014
Dream the Impossible Native Youth Conference
"CSUSM Tribal Liaison Tishmall Turner and Dr. Joely Proudfit, along with CICSC students and staff, hosted the Dream the Impossible Conference. 510 American Indian students from California attended the conference. The conference provided training in leadership and community engagement." - CICSC Newsletter September 2014
The 2014 Dream The Impossible Native Youth Conference is about respect, culture, and education which leads to a healthier life. Themes of this conference include: respect of culture and traditions, appreciating our ancestry, healthy families, drug awareness, future goals, identifying your talents, utilizing support programs, self improvment, and team building. The conference goal is to inspire youth to Dream The Impossible.
- Event Pictures
- Event Program
- June
CSUSM Pride Parade - Spring 2014
AISA & CICSC strut their campus pride in the Spring 2014 CSUSM Pride Parade!!!
- July
InterTribal Youth Summer Educational Tour
"The InterTribal Youth Summer Tour made a stop at the CSUSM campus. CICSC students and staff provided a tour of the and a class on Sovereignty of Water. The group were provided lunch before departing for their next college visit." - CICSC Newsletter September 2014
- September
Fall 2014 Welcome Back Luncheon/First Friday
"The Native Advisory Council, Office of Tribal Liaison, American Indian Student Alliance, Native Studies, and the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center welcomed American ndian new and returning students back to campus on Friday, September 5, with a luncheon celebration. The event started with a blessing from former Chairman Chris Devers and followed by introductions and information about campus resources." - Tishmall Turner (Luiseño), CICSC Newsletter September 2014
California Indian Day Film Screening & Panel Discussion
"First People - Kumeyaay"
"California Indian Day, celebrated each year on the fourth Friday of September, was established in 1998 as an official state holiday to teach people of all ages about the tribal cultures, histories and heritage of California's American Indian Tribes. The CICSC was honored and proud to welcome Master Kumeyaay Speaker, Cultural Educator and Mentor, Mr. Stan Rodriguez (lipay Nation of Santa Ysabel) to the CSUSM screening of "First People - Kumeyaay"." - Marjon J. Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter October 2014
Release of...
The State of American Indian and Alaskan Native (AIAN) Education in California 2014
The findings from the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center’s 2012 report confirmed the need for greater efforts to prepare, to recruit, to retain, and to graduate Native youth from institutions of higher education. In particular, the realization that AI/AN enrollment rates are declining across the CSUs was alarming. These results provided the basis to delve deeper into the program, outreach, and support of postsecondary institutions in the 2014 report to determine where enrollment and transfer numbers are decreasing or increasing; to determine what the best practices at state colleges and universities to attract, retain, and graduate AI/ANs are; and correspondingly to determine where we, as educators of AI/AN students in the state of California, need to improve. - CICSC Website
- October
46th Annual Native American Day
"Dr. Joely Proudfit, CICSC Director and Tishmall Turner, Tribal Liaison attended the 46th Annual Native American Day event in Sacramento, CA. This annual event, sponsored by the State Native American Liaisons of California, is held on the grounds of the State Capitol. Speakers include California Indian leaders; music and dancers are on hand to honor the spirit and contributions of the State's indigenous people." - CICSC Newsletter October 2014
Diversity Awareness Month Kick Off Event
A Conversation on Cultural Appropriation, "Clasping Hands Across Cultures for Unity and Strength"
"CSUSM kicked off Diversity Awareness month with a presentation on cultural appropriations by Dr. Suzan Shown Hario (Chevenne and Hodulgee Muscogee). Dr. Harjo is poet, writer, lecturer and advocate for Native American rights and policies. Dr. Hario has been working for over 20 years in ridding sports of offensive and stereotypical mascots, to include the current affairs with the Washington football team over its derogatory name.
The event entitled "Clasping Hands Across Cultures for Unity and Strength" brought awareness and education to the students and community of San Marcos." - Marjon J. Pino (Navajo), CICSC Newsletter November 2014
45th Annual National Indian Education Association
"Tishmall Turner, Tribal Liaison, and Dr. Joely Proudfit, CICSC Director, attended the 45th Annual National Indian Education Assocation (NIEA) Convention and Tradeshow "Building Education through Generations" in Anchorage October 14-18." - Tishmall Turner (Luiseño), CICSC Newsletter November 2014
- November
American Indian Heritage Month Events
NOV. 4th
American Indian Student Alliance Presents:
American Indian Heritage Month "Celebration of Song & Dance" & Civility Shirt Day!
11:30 am - 1 pm, University Student UnionNOV. 7th
Open House at the California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center
12pm -1 pm, SBSB 1118NOV. 18th
American Indian Mythbusters "Ask an American Indian Day"
11 am - 1 pm, SBSB 1118NOV. 20th -22nd
2nd Annual San Diego American Indian Film Festival
2014 Culture Expo
"On Wednesday, November 12th, Alpha Pi Sigma Sorority and Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity co-hosted the 2014 Culture Expo at California State University San Marcos....Our very own Michael Murphy, Joseph Smith, and Ernestina Martinez were there to perform and proudly represent the American Indian Student Alliance (AISA). AISA strives to educate students about Native culture and facilitate leadership opportunities for American Indian students on campus and in the community." - Michael Murphy (Luiseño), CICSC Newsletter December 2014
2nd Annual San Diego American Indian Film Festival
- Event Flyer
- Event Program
- Event Recap Video
- Event Pictures
- Opening Night - November 20
- Saturday Sessions & Closing Night - November 21&22
- Additional Saturday Photos - Album 1, Album 2
- SDAIFF Youth Track
- Additional Picture Album
2013
- April
Dr. Joely Proudfit Named Educator of the Year by the 36th Annual California Conference on American Indian Education
"Shouting Secrets" Film Screening
On Native Ground Interview with Dr. Proudfit
- May
2013 American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony
Unveiling of the Luiseño "How to get to College" Poster
On May 9, 2013, the California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center introduced the Luiseño version of the CSU's "How-to-Get-to-College" brochure. This momentous occasion brought together representatives from six Luiseño Bands, including La Jolla, Pala, Pauma, Pechanga, Rincon, and Soboba, who were presented with this valuable resource. - CICSC Website
- July
4th Annual Native Youth Conference
SAVE THE DATE! The 4th Annual Native Youth Conference will be taking place this summer in July at Cal State San Marcos.
Stand Up! Get Active...Be Empowered, Be Heard!
Save The Date! July 16th-17th, Where: Cal State San Marcos, Time: Over night college experience, Ages: 13-18
Activities, Food, Guest Speakers, Beach, Prizes and Much More!
- September
The California Indian Culture and Sovereionty Center Presents
The Baby Veronica Case: The Impact on Tribal Sovereignty, Family, and Culture
Learn the implications of the case from tribal and legal representatives. Witness the impact from an adoptee's perspective
On Tuesday, June 25, 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision in Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl, a case that grew from a custody dispute involving a child, Veronica ('Baby Girl'), her father, Dusten Brown, and a non- Native couple who unsuccessfully petitioned to adopt her. Because Brown is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this custody dispute implicates a federal law, the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
ICWA was passed in 1978 to end unjust practices by child welfare and adoption social workers, attorneys, and courts that lead to violations of many Native parents' rights and the widespread removal and placement of American Indian children without parental consent.
Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl garnered significant concern from Indian Country as the decision had great potential to impact not just the future of ICWA, but also Congress' power to pass laws that protect Indian tribes and people.
- November
The Inaugural San Diego American Indian Film Festival
2012
- April
Dream the Impossible
The 2012 Dream the Impossible Native Youth Conference was about respect, culture, and education and their impact on leading healthier lives. Themes of this conference included: respect of culture and traditions, appreciating our ancestry, healthy families, drug awareness, future goals, identifying your talents, utilizing support programs, self-improvement, and team building.
The conference was free for Native youth between the ages of 13-18 and aimed to inspire them to Dream the Impossible.
- May
2012 American Indian Graduation Honoring Ceremony
- October
27th Annual California Indian Conference
The 27th conference recognizes the strength and progress of California Indian throughout the years while realizing the path to leadership through education, research and community.
The CICSC Unveils the First-Ever...
State of American Indian and Alaskan Native Education Report
Authored and produced by the CICSC, this annual report consolidates publicly accessible data to offer essential insights into the educational landscape of American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIAN) in K–12, community college, California State University, and University of California systems. The report encompasses data on enrollment, graduation rates, dropout rates, degrees awarded, and personnel, categorized by race/ethnicity. Our aim is for this report to serve as a valuable resource, informing future policy decisions, enhancing discussions on AI/AN educational requirements, and prioritizing resources for AIAN students in California. - CICSC Website
New Journeys in Collaboration
"October 4, 2012 marked the sixth annual New Journeys in Collaboration Conference, hosted by the California Indian Museum and Cultural Center (CIMCC), CSUSM, and the CICSC. The purpose of New Journeys is to establish a place for peer-to-peer mentoring and networking on community identified topics vital to the successful development of California tribal museums, cultural centers and cultural programming." - 2011/2012 CICSC Newsletter
- November
Please join the CICSC, CSUSM Native Studies and AISA in supporting the
2nd Annual Week of Indigenous EatingNovember 2-9, 2012
Taste of Native America
"The CICSC and AISA hosted “Taste of Native America” on November 28, 2012. The event featured more than 20 different kinds of pre-contact Native foods from tribes throughout the United States including yucca bread, wiiwish, deer and yucca blossom stir-fry, blue corn mush and buffalo stew." - 2011/2012 CICSC Newsletter
- December
More than Casinos Art Exhibit
"On September 28, 2012, CSUSM revealed its newest exhibit in the Kellogg Library. The “More Than Casinos: California Indian Culture, Contributions and Communities” exhibit was displayed throughout the fall 2012 semester. The CICSC, working with Melanie Chu, secured Instructionally Related Activity (IRA) funding to feature contemporary photographs and traditional works of art that helped communicate multiple Native points of view on critical historical and contemporary issues within California Indian communities." - 2011/2012 CICSC Newsletter
2011
- March
"Two-Spirits" Film and Panel
Agave Roast at Tierra Miguel Organic Farm
Professor Proudfit, Professor Small and Professor Bade's three-way course collaborative with students and faculty harvesting and preparing agave and other California native foods.
- April
Luiseño Landscape Book Reception
"Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Critical Role Played by American Indian Women of North County San Diego."
- May
37th Annual Cupa Days at Pala Cupa Cultural Center, Pala Indian Reservation
- September
California Indian Days - Ishi: A Story of Dignity, Hope and Courage (100 Year Anniversary)
To commemorate California Indian Days, Nicole Myers-Lim, J.D. (Pomo), the Executive Director of the California Indian Museum & Cultural Center, and Staff Attorney at the National Indian Justice Center, will be presenting an enlightening event titled "Ishi: A Story of Dignity, Hope, and Courage." Ishi, recognized as the last Native American to have contact with European Americans, was discovered in Oroville, California a century ago. Despite being predominantly portrayed through non-Native lenses in books and documentaries as the "last Yahi," Ishi's legacy endures in the hearts of countless school children and the global public.
This event endeavors to enrich and expand the narrative surrounding Ishi, aiming to enhance public awareness and appreciation of California Indian history. The accompanying lecture will delve into Native American perspectives on Ishi's legacy, exploring historical misconceptions and contemporary issues related to repatriation.
- November
Opening of the California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center
- California Indian Culture And Sovereignty Center Opens At Cal State San Marcos - KPBS Article
California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center - Events of November
Events Include:
- 2011 New Journeys in Collaboration
- California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center Grand Opening
- Football Indian Style The Carlisle Story
- Native American Professional Development Conference
2010
2009
- April
2009 Dream the Impossible Native Youth Conference
- September
California Indian Days
- November
An Evening With Winona LaDuke, Native American Environmentalist & Author
