Thursday, February 25, 2010
Lost Nation: The Ioway
In the twilight of Native American dominion, two Ioway leaders travel to Washington, D. C. in 1824 to meet with Superintendent of Indian Affairs, William Clark. Both sign a treaty ceding a large portion of tribal land for settlement. White Cloud sees cooperation as the only way for his people to survive, while Great Walker regrets the loss of land where his ancestors are buried. More territory is lost, and the Ioway people are divided, with some regarding one leader as a traitor, and the other as a patriot. After the tribe is removed, the 36 million acres they once called home is named 'Iowa'. Then, they are forgotten. 'Lost Nation: The Ioway' tells the dramatic true tale of two leaders' struggle to save their people from inevitable American conquest, and the Ioway's current fight to reclaim and maintain their unique history and culture.
The Following video montage expresses the wonderful moments we shared that evening with the Tongva and Ioway Nations
The Tongva welcomed the Northern and Southern Ioway to Los Angeles. Gifts were exchanged and the evening was celebrated in both song and dance. Tongva delegates included Tribal Chairman Anthony Morales, Andy Morales, and Gloria Arellanes. Filmmakers Kelly and Tammy Rundle answered questions after the screening of their film Lost Nation: The Ioway.
Southern Ioway in attendance included Tribal Elder Joyce Big Soldier Miller, 2010 Ioway Tribal Princess Shayla Scott Miller (who is Joyce's granddaughter and her chaperone), Tribal Pow Wow Chairman Bob Murray, Jr., Bear Murray, Tribal members: Jimmy Rowe, Marlina Rowe, Celina Rowe, Jimena Rowe, Viento Rowe, Richard Ornelas, Brittney Rowe, Ilisewa Rowe, Wasoce Rowe, Jeriah Rowe
and Richard Ornelas.
Northern Ioway in attendance included Annie Barada Assefa, Sarita McGowan, Tommy McGowan, Johnny McGowan, Christa McGowan, Sarah Barada James, Naoni Padilla, Michele McCord (award-winning songwriter for country music stars) & her husband.