School
Presentations
Wishtoyo
achieves its educational goal with presentations of programs for schools,
youth organizations, community groups and the general public.
Mati Waiya, Founder
and Executive Director, also brings programs to schools and
venues such as the Aquarium of the Pacific
(Long Beach, CA). Waiya often appears in full Chumash regalia, and
generously shares his knowledge of Chumash values, lifeways and
history, with stories passed down for generations. He also performs
dances with fellow Chumash Dolphin Dancers, and sings Chumash songs.
These
traditions awaken one's spirit and teach the inherent human values of
Respect,
Honor, Humility, Responsibility and Awareness
of one's
natural surroundings, its plants, wildlife and sustainable ways.
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Executive
Director Mati Waiya performs Chumash dances, songs
The response received from schools and the community is overwhelming - all
express
appreciation and gratitude and return year after year. Wishtoyo aims for a continued effort to increase the number of
programs to benefit students and children - our future environmental
stewards.
Wishtoyo Chumash
Village, Malibu
UCLA
Elementary School teacher:
"Wishtoyo
has conducted extraordinary Chumash cultural experiences on our school
site. Wishtoyo's influence began with our third graders.
Demonstrations have evolved from the classroom to the school's
amphitheater. Wishtoyo has tailor-made programs for us (including
our parent body). Programs have been so beautifully presented that I
have asked for a return performance each fall to launch our Native
American studies.
Not only have our children learned about the Chumash culture, but
also were taught about the important role the environment plays in our
world today. Last Spring, we incorporated our community service
learning of Friends of Ballona Wetlands and oak restoration at Malibu
State Park into our third grade curriculum.
Through Wishtoyo's inspiration and guidance, we have gained a deeper
appreciation of the traditions, history, and culture of the Chumash
people."
Children
help with hands-on tasks, below. (April, 2008)
Comments made by 7-9 year old children after
Mati Waiya's performance of storytelling, dancing and Chumash songs over a campfire for them:
...."happy to know that someone wanted to bring back the Indian ideals.
Because without the Indians, we wouldn't have a lot. They need to get
the credit they deserve."
"It was nice of them to come and share with us. I liked the
instruments and everyone touched them - they trusted us!"
"It was so great meeting someone who knows so much about the Indians. I
was amazed about how long Indians lived here."
"I learned that what you make and give to someone is always special
because it comes from the heart."
"I was impressed by all the artifacts they made."
"I liked the storytelling. He (Mati Waiya) put it in his words and
acted as the eagle."
Educators at the school expressed the following:
"Obviously, from the student comments, Wishtoyo's presentation had a
big impact on everyone. Focus was put on how the Indians took care of
the Earth and how we can continue to preserve our Earth today.
Everyone enjoyed realizing the tribal traditions and the contributions
they play in our everyday lives."
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