Wisdom of the Elders

Series 3, Program 4: Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation *

Introduction

Elder Wisdom Feature: Russell Jim

Brian Bull shares the story of Russell Jim, Yakama elder, who in his lifetime, has seen some Yakama traditions threatened by today's environment. Today, he is working with his people to keep the land, the Columbia River and its people healthy and protect it from the damaging effects of the nearby Hanford Nuclear plant.

Speaking Native

Don Addison teaches us an essential term from the Yakima language, which is one of the northwestern dialects of the Sahaptian language family.

Sacred Landscape

Judy Bluehorse Skelton takes us to Hanford Reach along the Columbia River where ancient rock paintings can still be seen, and where the Yakama people are reclaiming their land and their cultural history.

Tribal Rhythms

Nico Wind tells a part of the history and music of the Shaker church, one of the few nineteenth century indigenousreligions still being practiced across the northwest.

Health and Healing

Rose High Bear introduces us to the tribe's diabetes coordinator Evelyn Umtuch, and to Delores George, who reminds us that "people talk about alcoholism, but food can kill you too."

Artist's Circle

Bruce Crespin shares the wisdom of Yakama basket weaver and song-carrier Vivian Harrison, who takes seriously her calling as culture-bearer.

Turtle Island Storytellers

Topennish elder, Johnson Meninick shares his wisdom about the importance of Creator's laws and his peoples' traditions and speaks about the sacred mountains of the Northwest Cascades.

* Segment transcripts and participant biographies can be found on the Wisdom of the Elders Web site.

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