News Summary
Northern Arizona University students marked Orange Shirt Day, raising awareness about the historical impact of residential schools on Indigenous families. The event, organized by the Office of Indigenous Student Success, included personal testimonies highlighting the importance of understanding this legacy. Additionally, the Arizona Diamondbacks kicked off their baseball season, showcasing a blend of cultural remembrance and sports enthusiasm within the Flagstaff community. NAU also offered incentives for students moving out of residential housing, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere on campus.
Flagstaff, Arizona – Northern Arizona University (NAU) students recently observed Orange Shirt Day, an event aimed at raising awareness of the impacts of residential schools on Native American children. This observance highlighted the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts that these institutions have had over the years. The event was organized by the Office of Indigenous Student Success, which is dedicated to advocating for Indigenous students and promoting cultural awareness.
Sharon Singer Doctor, the director of student life experience in the Office of Indigenous Student Success, voiced the significance of the event in fostering understanding within the NAU community regarding the lasting effects of residential schools. NAU student Valrie Honamwaina participated in the commemoration, sharing her father’s personal experience attending Phoenix Indian School. This poignant testimony added depth to the day’s activities and reinforced the purpose of the observance.
In other news, the Arizona Diamondbacks kick off their baseball season today with their first opening game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. First baseman Christian Walker expressed enthusiasm for the event, describing opening day as one of the most thrilling times in baseball, regardless of the competitors. The anticipation surrounding the season opener is palpable, not only among the players but also the fans who eagerly await the return of America’s favorite pastime.
In an unrelated development, NAU is offering a new incentive for students moving out of residential housing by April 16. Students who complete their move-out process by this date will receive a 25% credit on the price of their spring semester dining and housing fees. This initiative aims to provide financial relief to students during a time when managing expenses can be a challenge.
The combination of the two events—Orange Shirt Day and the Diamondbacks’ season opener—reflects a blend of cultural remembrance and sports enthusiasm, both integral aspects of life in Flagstaff. These occurrences illustrate the diverse activities and events happening within the NAU community and the broader Arizona area.
Orange Shirt Day serves to remind participants and observers alike of the painful legacy of residential schools, encouraging reflection and education. This awareness is fundamental to fostering a supportive and informed community. As for the Diamondbacks, the excitement of opening day heralds a new season of competition and camaraderie among players and fans, emphasizing the spirit of teamwork and community engagement often associated with sports.
Overall, Flagstaff is currently experiencing a vibrant period as both educational initiatives and sporting events highlight the interconnectedness of history, culture, and community spirit.
The Orange Shirt Day observance was reported by NAZ Today’s reporter Leilani Jose, while Northern Arizona’s live weather updates were provided by Iceshya Tanaka. NAZ Today operates as a collaborative production involving students, faculty, and staff from the Media Innovation Center at NAU’s School of Communication, which is part of NAU’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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Additional Resources
- NAZ Today: NAU Remembers Residential Schools
- Wikipedia: Residential Schools in Canada
- NAU Athletics: Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff
- Google Search: NAU Athletics
- AZ Family: ASU Season Opener Against NAU
- Google Scholar: ASU vs NAU Football
- KOLD News: NAU’s Marching Band at Macy’s Parade
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marching Band
- Sun Devils: NAU Football Game Information
- Google News: Sun Devils Football
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