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| Mothers Join Daughters To Learn | |
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Wednesday, Mar 31,1999 By Megan Augustine American Indian tribal traditions that teach understanding, love and respect are revered by many people. That is one reason why mothers seek to relay those qualities to their daughters in the San Antonio YMCA program called Y-Indian Maidens. Mothers and daughters learn Indian history and emulate customs of Native Americans. At their meetings, Y-Indian Maidens wear headdresses adorned with feathers, and they adorn their faces with ceremonial paint. "It's a great chance to be a friend to your child," said Cheryl Moore of her three years in the program. Moore and her daughter Karly have participated in a variety of activities with their tribe, including canoeing, archery and horseback riding. Daughters in the Y-Indian Maidens program are ages 5-8. All from throughout the city are welcome. Members are given Indian names and are encouraged to adopt other Indian traditions. Moore and her tribe, called the Iroquois and based at Northeast YMCA, use an Indian handshake and Indian prayers at their meetings. "The best part is the camp-outs," said Audra Kelley. She and her daughter Samantha also joined the Iroquois tribe three years ago. Three times a year the group travels to various campsites for a powwow and overnight stay. The next camp-out will take place from April 10 to 12 at Camp Stewart in Hunt, near Kerrville. During the camp-outs, tribe members learn how to pitch tents and cook meals outdoors. Camp out lessons also include fire safety and first aid. One aspect of the program is shared leadership, in which all mothers share the responsibilities of the tribe. Since it is a co-membership program, each mother and daughter pair takes turns leading the tribe. "Building confidence is a key part of the program," said Paul Hartzog, director of the local YMCA Indian Guide Program. Joining the Y-Indian Maidens costs $40 for each mother and daughter team, plus the $35 per year for family YMCA membership. Group rates are offered for many of the tribe's outings, such as roller-skating and bowling. Y-Indian Maidens is a national program that began in 1951 in South Bend, Indiana. Hartzog said he believes the local program began shortly after. For information about Y-Indian Maidens and other Indian Guide programs, call Hartzog at (210) 656-5777. © 1999 San Antonio Express-News |
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