Albuquerque Trial Balloon

November 2008

 

 

Events

 

 



World

Nation
Commentary
V.B. Price
Jim Hightower


 Transportation

Agriculture

Opinion
  Harry Wilson
Local or Loco

Reviews

Events

Laguna Pueblo Celebrates Life-long Learning Program

By Katherine Augustine

‘Let us take care of the children, for they have a long way to go. Let us take care of the elders, for they have come a long way. Let us take care of those in between, for they are doing the work.’ This is the motto of the Laguna Education Foundation (LEF) and the Laguna Rainbow Center (a long term residential home on Laguna Pueblo, one of very few in Indian Country). The Foundation supports life-long learning experience and promotes positive community development on Laguna Pueblo through educating the youth and caring for their elders in various ways. Through the Pueblo’s Department of Education, the Foundation supports pre-school education and the elementary and middle schools, as well as the Laguna-Acoma High School. Some schools have been provided with classroom supplies, library books, playground equipment and sports equipment.
At the higher education level, during 2006, three Laguna students were granted Governor’s Scholarship awards, based on academic performance and area of study. Since 2006 numerous awards have been granted to qualified tribal members. A selection committee determines recipients of the scholarships, which are the Ola May Hoover, K’awaika Eagle, Gil Sanchez and Rebecca Johnson scholarships.
It has been demonstrated that the Laguna students have performed above the national average for both grade point averages and completion of college programs, with a retention rate of 82%. The LEF offers leadership development and support for graduates looking to achieve meaningful work. Foundation workers also strive to meet the needs of the community and to provide the Pueblo of Laguna with outstanding citizens and leaders.
On November 15, a celebration of Laguna Pueblo’s Life-Long Learning will take place at The Albuquerque Museum, 6 to 8 PM. The Pueblo’s 4th Annual Art Gala, featuring a silent auction, music, and sampling of wine and cheese, will benefit the Laguna Education Foundation and The Laguna Rainbow Corporation. For further information and tickets, contact Lee Francis at lagunaedfoundation.org or (505) 563-0765.

  

Human Rights Week


 
by Sally-Alice Thompson

Sixty years ago the apex of recognition of the intrinsic worth of every human being was reached. It culminated in the massive signing of The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, an inclusive document that outlines the attributes of life that make for truly civilized existence. Unfortunately most, if not all, the items listed in this great and hopeful document have been ignored in country after country, government after government, not excluding our own.

In recognition of the crying need to return to that hopefulness of sixty years ago, when people all over the world desired the fulfillment of material and spiritual needs for everyone, not just a privileged few, the United Nations Association and Veterans for Peace of Albuquerque have declared December 3 through 10 to be Human Rights Week. We are asking any group or individual who can to join us in making that week one in which Albuquerque becomes aware of the current inequalities that are so debilitating to the human spirit. We are expecting Mayoral and City Council proclamations.

On the final day of the Human Rights Week, December 10 at 6:00 PM, there will be a community gathering at Smith-Brasher Hall on the CNM campus. Participants are invited to briefly tell what they have done to further the cause of human rights for all. City Councilman Rey Garduno will moderate. The keynote speaker will be LaDonna Harris, well known Native American rights activist.

YOU are invited to be a part. Let's make this the beginning of a Renaissance, a revival of humanity's striving for true greatness. Please indicate your anticipated participation to Bill Pratt 869-4212 or Sally-Alice Thompson 268-5073, or attend the next planning meeting Nov. 16 at the Albuquerque Center for Peace and Justice, 202 Harvard SE.