And it s not one about living in teepees, fighting cowboys or scalping the bad guys. We didn t do that in California, said Steve TeSam, chairman of the Viejas Tribe. Perhaps on Gunsmoke, but not in California. That s what children need to know. One way to do that is by properly educating this state s youth.
Education is the secret to success and one of the reasons to put legislative muscle behind it.
This becomes even more critical as the American Indian population has gained political and social influence in the Coachella Valley and throughout the state. Their increased economic power has given them more clout and visibility and, as such, it is essential our children come to know and understand their culture. The bill also has won the support of Barry Brokaw, a lobbyist for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. He knows of what he speaks. His client has its own academic program in the Palm Springs area schools, and the interaction the tribe has experienced with the kids is terrific.