The 20th anniversary of the Vine Deloria Jr. Indigenous Studies Symposium is significant. It marks two decades of commitment to Indigenous rights, culture, and education. This anniversary acknowledges the ongoing relevance of Deloria’s work and the foundational ideas presented at past symposia.

The symposium originated from the 2005 Robert K. Thomas Symposium held at Northwest Indian College, where Vine Deloria Jr. delivered the keynote address. Deloria had deep ties to the region, having lived in Marietta, taught at Western Washington University and he had deep connections to Lummi Nation and played a crucial role in the Northwest fishing rights struggle, culminating in the landmark Boldt decision in 1974. After this event, Deloria proposed the idea of an annual symposium at NWIC to further explore key areas of his life’s work, including traditional knowledge and federal Indian policy. Tragically, Deloria passed away less than four months later, but his vision inspired the creation of the symposium, which honors his legacy.

The theme for this year’s symposium, “The World We Used to Live In: Upholding Our Duty to Past and Future Generations in the Fight for Indigenous Sovereignty,” reflects a profound commitment to the ancestral wisdom and struggles of Native peoples. This theme draws directly from Vine Deloria Jr.’s book, The World ‘We Used to Live In, and his participation in the 2005 Robert K. Thomas Symposium.

In his text, Deloria reflects on the essential connection between past, present, and future, stating, “We need to see where we have been before we see where we should go” (Deloria, 2006, p. xix). This sentiment underscores the idea that understanding our history is crucial for navigating the future. By invoking the wisdom of past generations, current and future leaders can better advocate for the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples.

Deloria’s discussion of spiritual power is also relevant to the theme of duty and legacy. He notes, “A collection of these stories, placed in a philosophical framework, might demonstrate to the present and coming generations the sense of humility, the reliance on the spirits, and the immense powers that characterized our people in the old days” (Deloria, 2006, p. xx). This quote highlights his belief in the importance of storytelling as a means to educate future generations about their cultural heritage and spiritual strengths.

Deloria articulates the ongoing responsibility of each generation to fight for the rights of their communities, echoing his assertion that “you have to fight the same battle that the generation before fought and the generation following” (Deloria, 2005, p. 26). This message reinforces the notion that the struggles for sovereignty and justice are intergenerational; each group inherits the duty to protect and advocate for their people’s rights, echoing the battles fought by those who came before them.

In the 2008 Symposium introduction letter, co-coordinator Steve Pavlik emphasizes the importance of keeping the memory of influential leaders alive. He recalls the collaborative spirit that led to the establishment of the symposium and highlights the need to honor Vine Deloria Jr.’s legacy through ongoing dialogue. He notes the significance of presenting new ideas and fresh perspectives in a manner that respects Indigenous oral traditions. This approach aligns with the symposium’s commitment to fostering meaningful discussions.

As the symposium celebrates the legacy of Vine Deloria Jr. and the original symposium coordinators who advocated for this vital dialogue, we honor not only the past but also the future of Indigenous studies and activism. The transcriptions of past symposia will serve as a living testament to the ongoing efforts to uphold the spirit of resistance and cultural resilience that Deloria so passionately championed.

References

Deloria, V. (2005). The world we used to live in: Remembering the powers of the medicine men. Fulcrum Publishing.