The medicine wheel is also referred by some tribes as the Sacred Hoop. The concept of the medicine wheel symbolically represents a nonlinear model of human development. The medicine wheel represents the circle of life, its basic four directions, and their associated elements. Each direction of the wheel offers its own lessons, and color. Each compass direction on the wheel offers lessons and gifts that support the development of a balanced individual. The idea is to remain balanced at the center of the wheel while developing equally the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of one’s personality. The Medicine Wheel is a symbol of hope.
Resources and lessons:
https://intersectingart.umn.edu/?lesson/26
https://fourdirectionsteachings.com/ojibwe_learning_int.html
When you know who you are when your mission is clear, and you burn with the inner fire of unbreakable will; no cold can touch your heart; no deluge can dampen your purpose. You know that you are alive.
– Chief Seattle
Today, Native American youth are strong and working to continue the culture and traditions of their ancestors. Currently, there are 574 Federally recognized America Indian Tribes in the United States. According to the National Congress of American Indian (NCAI) website, the 2010 census data reported that 29% of the American Indian population were 18 and under.
The youth and elders strive forward by overcoming challenges and creating more vision for the future. Technology such as apps and website have helped to voice and teach. The use of
social media in dispelling the stereotypes that were presented through television, books and negative images such as mascots. Today, Native American youth are sharing tribal languages, the athleticism of tribal dance, traditional arts and advocacy.
The links below are just a few examples of websites that are targeted for today's Native American youth.
