We were happy to participate in this year’s Dream the Impossible conference, an event designed by tribal youth to; (1) eliminate any pressure, fear, and intimidation that they might feel towards higher educational facilities and (2) motivate young activists to dream big. KCC was one of ten organizations that provided workshops meant to reassure native students’ sense of self-efficacy and encourage them to pursue cultural revitalization via the avenue of their choice.
Our staff, including Stan Rodriguez, Priscilla Ortiz, and Kyla Curo, with the assistance of Raymond Martinez and Hwaa Rodriguez, told traditional stories and taught students how to play several Kumeyaay games. We sought to provide students the chance to engage with their culture in a playful way and let them know that cultural work http://bridgewaterfire.com/news/ is academic work.
We always hope to inspire the next generation of knowledge keepers and teachers to seek out an education in whatever form that may take: whether they attend university or work directly with a knowledge keeper as an apprentice. At KCC, we offer both.
Yaay ahun miishiape! Asookum nuwoo.
About Kyla Curo
Kyla Curo is a member of the Barona Band of the Kumeyaay nation. She has a bachelor's degree in American Indian Studies from California State University San Marcos and has worked with KCC since 2020.
She serves as the Kumeyaay Community Liaison - Outreach Specialist at Cuyamaca Community College.