UCLA American Indian Studies Center

🔷Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future 🔷
🔸This September 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin Catie Galbraith from the Chickasaw Nation with an MA in American Indian Studies class of 2024.

We are pleased to introduce our current Student Services Advisor in the American Indian Studies Department at UCLA and our September UCLA Native Bruin highlight.

Catie is a proud citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and was raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 2018, she relocated to Montreal, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Geography, complemented by minors in Environmental Science and Indigenous Studies from McGill University. During her time in Montreal, she actively participated in organizing anti-pipeline solidarity blockades, which significantly shaped her research interests in resource extraction and envisioning Indigenous futures that transcend extraction practices.

In 2022, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a MA degree in American Indian Studies at UCLA. Catie is a graduate from the MA program, class of 2024, with her thesis focusing on a collaborative web map she contributed to, which investigates a speculative ecology surrounding a gold mine in Quebec. Furthermore, she examined the ethical responsibilities associated with co-creative research and how both the physical infrastructure of resource extraction and the digital framework of mapmaking can disrupt relationships between humans and non-human entities. Throughout her academic journey, she was an active member of the American Indian Graduate Student Association, serving as co-chair during the 2023-2024 academic year.

In here leisure time, she is cooking meals for friends and is making ceramic light fixtures.

"I feel very privileged to have learned from Tongva and Tataviam people and lands, from the incredibly supportive AIS faculty, and from my fellow Native students."

AISC announcement.

https://alumni.ucla.edu/stories/patricia-bengochia-76/

Patricia Bengochia '76 - UCLA Alumni Patricia (Petey) Bengochia '76, of the Bishop Paiute Tribal nation, was part of the first group of Native students that was recruited to UCLA. She majored in history with a focus on American Indian history, including Indian law. Following her graduation in 1976, she began her career within her tribe...

🔷Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future 🔷
🔸This August 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin Eva Thomas from the Walpole Island First Nation, a MA graduate of 2009 in American Indians Studies.

Eva Thomas is an accomplished director, writer, and producer, with a strong commitment to bringing diverse Indigenous stories to the forefront of film and television. Based in Canada, her recent work includes directing episodes for CBC's STILL STANDING and writing for hit series such as CTV's SHELVED, CBC Gem's ZARQA, the CTV/APTN series ACTING GOOD, and the Crave/APTN series DON’T EVEN. Eva’s career is marked by her contributions to the critically acclaimed feature film NIGHT RAIDERS, directed by Danis Goulet, where she served as an Associate Producer. Her short film, REDLIGHTS, premiered at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and is now the foundation for her feature film, NIKA & MADISON, which is slated for production in late 2024.

Eva co-wrote and co-directed the feature ABERDEEN with Ryan Cooper, and served as Executive Producer on Kaniehtiio Horn’s directorial debut SEEDS. Both ABERDEEN and SEEDS will have their world premieres at TIFF in September 2024, further showcasing Eva's ability to nurture and produce powerful Indigenous stories. Eva is a member of Walpole Island First Nation and has a rich heritage that includes Tohono O'odham, Cherokee, and Scottish roots. When she's not working, Eva enjoys exploring warm climates and beach destinations, where she finds inspiration and relaxation.

QUOTE: "My time at UCLA was transformative, and I learned so much while I was there. But it was the Native students who truly inspired me—surrounded by smart, driven individuals who pushed me to excel. I've witnessed many UCLA students go out and take the world by storm, making a significant impact across various industries and driving change in their communities. I'm proud to be an alumna of UCLA and to be included in such remarkable company. Go Bruins!"

UCLA Native Bruin Kenneth Ramos from the Barona Bands of Mission Indians is a cast member of the Broadway play "Peter Pan" at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre! Check it out they indigized the story! Here is an article from the LA Times

"How the musical now does right by Indigenous people. The “Peter Pan” national tour's cast includes Native actors Cheyenne Omani, Bailey Frankenberg, Kenny Ramos and Raye Zaragoza, the latter of whom is originating a new take on Tiger Lily. Raye Zaragoza was just a child when she first auditioned to play Tiger Lily."

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2024-07-23/peter-pan-musical-tiger-lily-problem-indigenous-people #:~:text=How%20the%20musical%20now%20does,new%20take%20on%20Tiger%20Lily.&text=Raye%20Zaragoza%20was%20just%20a,auditioned%20to%20play%20Tiger%20Lily.

Open Position at UCLA AISC - application in link: https://universityofcalifornia.marketpayjobs.com/ShowJob.aspx?EntityID=38&jobcode=41098168&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa1ON4XFeC3ATcCPtn-LT335pjwB2SPkG4umnApQD09N7fVXWNohRY1gGA_aem_6n2qg8vv17FNhNSeAlbiMg

The deputy director serves as the managing editor of the American Indian Culture and Research Journal, the leading academic journal for peer reviewed essays in the field of Indigenous Studies. Duties include: (1) Manage and participate in the planning of Center-wide activities, facilitate involvement of Center units and direct overall Center support for activities of specific units or projects. Represent the director at administrative and research project meetings when required. (2) Oversee events calendar. Every quarter, create events schedule in consultation with director and event planning staff. Organize the staffing of the AISC booth at the annual powwow, including the display of Center publications, swag, giveaway books, sign-up sheets. (3) Oversee the development, final assembly, and completion of the Center’s annual report.

🔷Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future 🔷

🔸This July 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin Patricia Bengochia (also known as Petey) from the Bishop Paiute Tribal nation, a graduate of 1976.🔸

Patricia Bengochia, is one of the first group of Native students that was recruited to UCLA. Pat majored in History with a focus on American Indian history, including Indian Law. Following her graduation in 1976, she began her career within her tribe's Education sector before transitioning to the Gaming Commission, where she has served for the past 25 years.

Patricia, also known as Petey, has dedicated herself to preserving the Nüümu (Paiute) language by working with students and encouraging her grandchildren to embrace their heritage and language. Additionally, she actively participates in the elders committee and Tribal Historical Preservation office. Petey has two children, Lavina and Everett Bengochia, and four beloved grandchildren.

“The best memories I have of being an American Indian on the UCLA Campus is meeting so many other tribal members from across Indian Country and identifying with each other, we had so much fun taking part in so many events. The best was making long lasting friends’ and I still have contact with them today, we are very proud to have been the first students at UCLA.”

Happy 4th of July!

Happy National Pride Day, this day and everyday! 🌈 From the College Fund❤️

CILA is looking for an independent contractor to serve as the Program Coordinator for CILA. This position requires outstanding organization and proof-reading skills and expertise using Google Mail, Dropbox, Canva, Microsoft Word and Excel to create documents and communication as directed by the CILA Board of Directors (“Board”). Law students are encouraged to apply. Experience working for or with Tribes or Tribal communities is a plus.

This is a part-time, hourly independent contract position generally requiring 5-10 hours per week, but may require up to 25 hours per week during peak times for the organization;
This is a remote position, but please note all CILA programming takes place in California;
Rate of pay is $20-$27 per hour, depending on experience;
Ability to make at least a year-long commitment;
Travel may be required. Travel fees will be covered by CILA.

Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant skills that explains why you are the best candidate for this position. Candidates selected for a virtual interview with the Board may be asked to submit a writing sample.

Send your application materials to: [email protected]
Learn more about CILA at: calindianlaw.org

As we wrap up pride month in June, we encourage you to maintain an inclusive mindset and educate yourself on the longstanding acceptance of various gender identities and lifestyles within tribal nations. It is important to recognize that traditional teachings have always acknowledged the existence of multiple genders, so take the time to understand and appreciate these concepts in todays world.

Keep tradition alive!

Job posting…

CILA is looking for an independent contractor to serve as the Program Coordinator for CILA. This position requires outstanding organization and proof-reading skills and expertise using Google Mail, Dropbox, Canva, Microsoft Word and Excel to create documents and communication as directed by the CILA Board of Directors (“Board”). Law students are encouraged to apply. Experience working for or with Tribes or Tribal communities is a plus!

This is a part-time, hourly independent contract position generally requiring 5-10 hours per week, but may require up to 25 hours per week during peak times for the organization;
This is a remote position, but please note all CILA programming takes place in California;
Rate of pay is $20-$27 per hour, depending on experience;
Ability to make at least a year-long commitment;
Travel may be required. Travel fees will be covered by CILA.

Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant skills that explains why you are the best candidate for this position. Candidates selected for a virtual interview with the Board may be asked to submit a writing sample.

Send your application materials and questions to: [email protected]

Happy national indigenous peoples day! 🪶❤️🪶

The American Indian Studies Center is hiring a Publications Assistant to work 8 hours per week, beginning in July. Student applicants with a Work Study Award are preferred. Please see the attached for more information and email a cover letter and resume to Pamela Grieman at [email protected] by June 27th.

Friday, June 21, 2024 – Native skateboarding is a big deal » Native America Calling Skateboarding has gone from a rebellious alternative culture to an Olympic sport. It’s also becoming increasingly popular among Native athletes and recreational boarders and organizers are stepping up their support with places to skate. Skateboarding has roots in Native Hawaiian surf culture, and ...

Check it out!

Excited to host our next film workshop in Los Angeles next week! Want to get behind the camera, tell your story, and collaborate with other inspiring filmmakers? Don't miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and get inspired!

Since 2009, the Native American Youth Media and Tech Workshop has travelled to reservations and urban centers across the world to provide an expansive and comprehensive program that provides new access for our community.

The workshop is free but space is limited. If you are interested in joining our workshop, please email us: [email protected]

🇨🇦 Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day 🇨🇦
ALERT
For the next week you can stream two titles for free:
"Flat Rocks" weaves together breathtaking present-day footage of Kahnawake with archival photos dating back over 80 years revealing the community's way of life threatened by the St. Lawrence Seaway. Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (10 min.)
and
"NDN’s on the Airwaves" is a short documentary set in Ohsweken, Ontario that explores what community-driven radio has meant to the First Nations community in this region. It is a story that follows Mohawk poet and radio host Janet Rogers in her return home after several years living on the West Coast of Turtle Island. The film focuses on CKRZ 100.3 on the Six Nations reservation. (12 min.)

Indigenous Film Screenings Online Watch a selection of Indigenous short films reflecting diverse stories and perspectives from across Canada online from June 21 - 30.

Happy Summer Solstice 💛🧡🌞

The Summer Solstice signifies the moment when the sun is at its peak in the sky, resulting in longer days, plentiful food, and the gathering of various tribal communities gather for ceremonies and festivities.

UCLA American Indian Studies Center is seeking a Deputy Director. Deadline to apply is June 28th

Deputy Director in Los Angeles, California | The Regents of the University of California on behalf of their Los Angeles Campus careers-home is hiring a Deputy Director in Los Angeles, California. Review all of the job details and apply today!

Congratulations to the UCLA Native Bruins - Graduation Class of 2024 🎉. It was such an honor to have Actor Gary Farmer as the Keynote Speaker!

🔷Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future🔷
🔸This June 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin, Lydia Yellow Hawk (Sicangu Lakota) class of 2023, MA in American Indian Studies.🔸

Lydia Yellow Hawk is Sicangu Lakota from the Rosebud Reservation, He Dog community in South Dakota. Lydia is a 2023 UCLA alum and received her M.A. in American Indian Studies. Before attending UCLA, she graduated from Miami University (Ohio) in 2019 with a B.A. in Anthropology and a minor in Political Science. While at Miami, she was the founder and president of the Native American Student Association on the Hamilton campus for four years. During this time, Lydia created successful large-scale programs that reached across multiple campuses and introduced students to Indigenous cultures and peoples. In her senior year, Lydia received the highly prestigious President's Distinguished Service Award, only presented to a select group of students yearly.

Lydia's commitment to her Lakota heritage and community is a defining aspect of her professional journey. After graduating from Miami University, Lydia joined Teach For America as a 2019 corps member. She taught middle school social studies and science at the same school she attended as a child in Rosebud. As a Lakota educator and community member, she not only taught academic subjects but also incorporated Lakota language and culture into her lesson plans and the school-appointed curriculum. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Lakota culture was evident in her classroom, where her grandmother and father were regular visitors, enriching her students learning through storytelling and song.

Following her teaching experience, Lydia's academic journey led her to L.A. for grad school. Her M.A. thesis, titled "Taking the Teaching of our Ancestors:" Decolonizing History, Tribalography, & Lakota Storytellers," examines Lakota storytellers, specifically through the works of Dakota anthropologist Ella Cara Deloria, and analyzes the various research methods and spaces she articulated her communities’ histories with her “kinship methodology.” Lydia’s other research interests include Lakota oral history and storytelling practices, decolonizing methodologies, Indigenous social justice activism, and Indigenous self-determination and sovereignty. As a student, Lydia was a member of the American Indian Graduate Student Association. She was also a graduate student researcher and collaborated with other students and faculty on the Archiving the Age of Mass Incarceration project for UCLA's American Indian Studies Center.

Lydia currently works as an Educational Outreach Coordinator for Sicangu Co on their Sicangu-NASA Star Knowledge project. Outside of work, Lydia enjoys hiking with her two dogs, listening to her favorite podcast (The Red Nation), and going to the theatre to watch movies with friends.

“It has always been a long-term goal of mine to further my studies in AIS, and doing this at an institution such as UCLA has been a dream come true. What initially drew me to UCLA was the already built-in diverse Native community, both on and off campus. Also, the AIS department is home to top-leading scholars in Native/Indigenous studies. I’ve learned so much from my professors and mentors, such as Shannon Speed and Erin Debenport, and was fortunate to have their guidance in pursuing my research endeavors. I'm grateful for all the help and support I received from my program, committee, friends, family, colleagues, and professors at UCLA. I am incredibly proud to be a Native Bruin and look back at my time in LA as one of the most memorable chapters of my life. Go, Bruins!”

On this Memorial Day, we honor and remember all the heroes who bravely served our country. These courageous individuals dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom and ensuring our safety.

Let us remember and honor our heroes on this meaningful day.

The UCLA Native community is deeply saddened by the loss of Philip Hale, a beloved member of both the Native Bruin family and the larger Native American community in Los Angeles. We affectionately called him “Phil” within our community, and his presence will be greatly missed. Phil, who was from the Navajo tribe and belonged to the Red House Clan (Kinłichíí'nii), born for the Bitter Water Clan (Tódich'ii'nii), attended UCLA in 2013 with a focus degree in American Indian Studies. He was widely recognized for his kind demeanor, dry sense of humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Phil could often be seen participating in the annual pow-wow organized by the UCLA American Indian Students Association (AISA), singing alongside his family's Southern Drum group called "Hale and Company." While at UCLA he also served as the Pow-Wow director for the 28th annual UCLA Pow-Wow. Phil was actively involved in various pow-wows and community events within the local Native American community in Southern California.

Phil dedicated himself to supporting the Native American community in Southern California especially in education. He initially enrolled at UCLA in 1985 and partly completed his studies in 1989. However, after a hiatus of twenty-one years, he resumed attending classes in 2011 with the help of the Tribal Learning Community & Educational Exchange Program. As a result, he was able to rejoin UCLA in the fall of 2012. Prior to his time at UCLA, Phil spent over 15 years working in the education department of the Southern California Indian Center as a WIOA Mgr/Education Director, helping students achieve their educational aspirations. He also served as a parent advisor committee member advocating for continued education. Phil provided guidance to students and families through inter-tribal youth councils and served as a Grant Advisor at LAUSD Title VI Indian Education Program. During his time at UCLA, Phil collaborated with the American Indian Recruitment (AIR) and Retention of American Indian Now (RAIN), programs led by students at UCLA focused on advocating for Native representation and ensuring that students had access to the necessary resources for their success The Native community at UCLA is truly grateful for Phil's impactful contributions.

His legacy will continue to inspire, and his presence will be deeply missed. Our condolences are with the Hale family during this difficult time.

Please consider donating to the family funeral cost for Phil Hale:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-phillip-hales-final-journey

We are tabling today at the “Gathering at Kuruvungna” soaking it all in. It’s beautiful here! Come check it out!

Student Services Advisor and Assistant to the Chair
Application Deadline: 8:59pm (PST) 5/29/2024

Department Summary

First established in 1982, the Department of American Indian Studies offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in native and indigenous studies, with faculty engagement from across campus. Our faculty also hold appointments in Anthropology, Art History, Education, Ethnic Studies, Gender Studies, History, Law, Public Policy, World Arts and Cultures, and more. The Department also has a Joint Degree Program in American Indian Studies, offering both an M.A. in American Indian Studies as well as J.D. in Law.
Position Summary

Working in the UCLA Department of American Indian Studies provides the opportunity to cultivate connections across campus in support of native and indigenous students, many of whom are first gen students. Connecting students with resources, guiding them through the program to complete their undergraduate or graduate degree, supporting faculty in their research endeavors, are the focus of this position, including support to the Chair on events and department projects and record keeping. Applicants with skills for working independently are encouraged to apply.

Salary & Compensation

*UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.
Qualifications

Academic or administrative support Experience in an academic environment or administrative experience. (Preferred)
Analytical skills to assess information, situations, problems, practices and procedures and recommend appropriate solutions and/or improvements. (Required)
Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain productive and cooperative working relationships with students, faculty, staff and off-campus personnel from diverse social, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds. (Required)
Organizational skills to develop and maintain accurate and complete records, both electronic and hard copy. Ability to collect and collate information from various sources, analyze data and prepare clear and comprehensible reports. (Required)
Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently with minimal supervision, balance fluctuating workload and competing deadlines, follow through on assignments, and complete projects in a timely manner. (Required)
Ability to communicate effectively, show empathy and perception, and handle confidential matters sensitively and discreetly. Demonstrated skill in using fundamental counseling techniques to guide students. Ability to analyze conflicts, identify causes and make recommendations for problem resolution. (Required)
Computer proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook. Demonstrated skills to create and maintain detailed spreadsheets and statistical reports; ability to compose and edit correspondence, memoranda, and other materials in a logical, concise, and professional manner. (Required)
Demonstrated skill in managing various forms of social media. Proficiency with design software programs such as MS Publisher, Adobe InDesign or Photoshop. (Preferred)
Working knowledge of University policies and procedures pertaining to student affairs; knowledge of online Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS), Student Information System (SIS) and University support services; familiarity with Humanities academic programs and College degree programs and requirements, Go. Grad, Counselor Desktop, BruinBuy, Express and UC Path. (Preferred)
Bachelor's degree in counseling or related field and/or demonstrated counseling experience in academic or educational environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. (Required)
Ability to maintain regular, on-time hours and schedule. (Required)

Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations

Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training (Required)
N/A

Special Conditions for Employment

Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.
Age Requirement: Candidate(s) must be 18 years or older to be eligible to be hired.
COVID and Flu Vaccinations: The position is subject to providing evidence of inoculation.

Schedule

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Union/Policy Covered

99-Policy Covered
Complete Position Description

JDXpert Job Viewer GENERAL SUPERVISION - Indicates that the incumbent develops procedures for performance of variety of duties; or performs complex duties within established policy guidelines.

Congratulations to the UCLA American Indian Student Association for putting together another great year of Pow Wow at UCLA 2024.

Photo by: Pamela J. Peters

Monday, April 29, 2024 – Native in the Spotlight: Jon Proudstar » Native America Calling Jon Proudstar (Yaqui, Jewish, and Mexican) is coming off a successful run on the TV series, Reservation Dogs, and a starring role in an all-Native movie set on the Osage Nation. On top of that, his ground-breaking 1996 comic, Tribal Force, is enjoying a triumphant return. We’ll catch up with the P...

A few photos from the UCLA Pow Wow on May 4, 2024 - Still happening today, Sunday, May 5, 2024 - come by.

Photo by: Pamela J. Peters

UCLA pow wow announcement from the American Indian Student Association at UCLA.

Canceled - Announcement of cancellation of UCLA, Native Bruin alumni reunion gathering on May 4, 2024