Brave Space and NACA

My class and I went to Native American Community Academy (NACA) November 14th to talk to young womxn help them conceptualize brave spaces, their sources of power, and an unsafe spaces. The responses they gave were compelling. Some spoke about brave spaces in relation to land, their family, and volleyball while unsafe spaces consisted of spaces where men are, hospitals, and in stores. I've been stuck on the part about men because I didn't expect that it would come out in the discussion, not because I am unaware of how dangerous men are, but because I'm not in touch with how early those dialogues are introduced to young womxn. I have been reflecting on my own learning curve in terms of how I understand men in relation to when my sister learned about men.

My favorite part was when the teacher, Ms. Whisper, gave me a pilón (I don't know what they call it but I call it a pilón) to grind bear root to make medicine. I was sick on that day so it was thoughtful and welcoming that Ms. Whisper wanted to make sure I got better. Grinding the bear root was an experience that I've never had and felt right. The medicine came from their "community pharmacy" where anyone can take medicine from if they need it with nothing expected in return. In following the spirit of reciprocity, I plan on going back to NACA and gifting something in return for their generosity.

Items from the community pharmacy and library at NACA Photo by Dr. Laura Harjo