It is the first generation of Esselen Indians that can put aside their fear of the white man's government. She told of the private nature of the Esselens in today's society, the family cohesiveness, the cultural differences that still exist. Men and woman work together as partners - it is a work ethic. Women are respected as equals. They direct the hunts, help butcher the game, raise the children, work in the fields.
Women recommend and nominate the chiefs, and work as men.
Men, work beside the women, sharing with all the tasks. It is a culture difference that is sacred. Families are very important, and any Esselen is considered to be family. The land promised to the Esselens was Big Sur - something similar will do. In the meantime, the Esselens formed an alliance with the Hoopa Tribe to ask for government buildings at Fort Ord.