May 2019 Regular Edition

ENVISION EQUITY MAY 2019
HONOR, COURAGE,
COMMITMENT:
STEPHEN DOUGLASS
By Dr. Monica Lakhwani—Multicultural Specialist, DEP
Student Stephen Douglass from Boyle County High
School shared himself and a piece of his heritage
asking educators to continue seeking multiple
perspectives.
Upon introduction, Mr. Douglass spoke in his native
language following up in English. He shared his
Navajo Diné tribal affiliation – born of bear people
clan to meadow people clan. And immediately set
the stage of pride when sharing the meaning of his
traditional name as ‘the one who advances’.
Stephen shared how clan people are considered to be very structured, strict, and held
sacred even today. His clan is equivalent to his family.
When referring to his culture, he prefers the use of American Indian or Native American
but will not accept Indian alone.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered as a student?
“Challenges vary. Challenges on the reservation are mostly economic as well as being
labelled as different. Challenges outside the reservation are cultural. For example many
do not understand the mindset of respecting mother earth and animals. I am passionate
about being nice to animals and earth we live on.”
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