Al has successfully demonstrated that it is possible to create a balance between one's expertise in a given field with one's knowledge and understanding of American Indian culture and tradition. Al is both a teacher and a leader who steadfastly adheres to the tenets of his tribal background, and encourages students to maintain and enhance their tribal background through the arts. Indian people today have a foot in two worlds, but we live one life. Our footing is often uncertain because each world is in a continuous state of change. But we also need to take the best from other cultures to blend with what we already have.
Cultural change can be painful.
Adaptation helps moderate that pain and provides hope. Seeing Indian young people adapt and then live out their culture is very satisfying. What I see after the pain is a story of reemergence and hope. The Indian World Citizens of the United States speak 400 languages. One-half or 200 of these languages are spoken by the American Indian.