CELEBRATING HISTORY AND CULTURE
The silos of daily life are no match for the power of “togetherness.”
During May 4-6, Western Shoshone and Goshute leaders gathered to honor their relatives and celebrate their years of collaboration on efforts to protect, preserve and commemorate their heritage. At a time of political and social divides, tribal leaders were uplifting the sanctity of the region’s native communities while urging the next generation of tribal leaders to continue the partnerships that have led to nationwide recognition of indigenous culture in the Great Basin at places like Bahsahwahbee.
“There was no bitterness,” said Delaine Spilsbury, an Ely Shoshone tribal elder.
The event brought together relatives and old friends in the places that matter most throughout the traditional lands of Shoshone and Goshute people, whose ancestors were known as Newe.
During the days together, the sounds of laughter reverberated like springtime bird songs in the pinyon-juniper. The smells of good food wafted from the camp stoves. Stories shaped the past and future. Able-bodied youngsters served elders their meals. Leaders shared prayers and wisdom. Memories of the departed mixed with the promise of the future. Rain, snow and wind did not dampen the water tours, talking circles and outdoor dining. Those elements warmed the hearts of participants as they braced for the heat and aridity of the summer months and the long-term future. The gratitude. The kindness. The humanity: A trifecta not often seen in public life these days. Grace and compassion were the crux of the messages coming from tribal leaders.
To join a space of love and unity was welcome for GBWTI. The opportunity to celebrate indigenous cultural and history was inspiring for Delaine and her son Rick, who attended the multi-day event with about 50 other elected leaders, elders, and youth from the Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Reservation, Ely Shoshone and Duckwater Shoshone.
When asked about the event, the Spilsburys had this to offer about the importance of coming together.
“We shared a lot of information and history that you won’t easily find in books or records,” Delaine Spilsbury said. “It builds and confirms the work that we’ve been doing.”
“We recognize that we all care,” Rick Spilsbury, Delsaine’s son, said. “I was afraid for so long that our history would be lost to memory. Getting together prioritizes the importance of who we are and recognizes the people who will help to save the memory of our culture and our experiences. The rest of the world isn’t going to remember for us.”
GBWTI is grateful for the tribal leaders, elders and youth who helped make the event possible. Many folks took off work, traveled great distances, and shared deeply felt stories. Everyone left with full hearts and minds.