2016

At the June 9 to 12, 2016 event, Shoshone-Paiute tribal elder Wynona Charles at a sunrise ceremony June 12 at the Return of the Boise Valley People event said she reminded those present we have to encourage the young people to get an education to use as a tool to get what we want. “Our footprints — our ancestors are not only here but across Indian Country,” she said. Wynona said prayers will help the tribal people continue on, along with the ceremonies. “It’s why we gathered here, the Creator – he laid the prayers down here, no matter what tribe, we have to teach our young people and have respect.” She said our ancestor’s blood that was shed is still in the Boise Valley and it makes her want to cry at times but we have to take care of ourselves to continue to teach the young people. She added deniwape (tribal teachings) is a tough road to follow but we continue what we know and be strong when we pray.

the Boise Valley tribes named an A10 jet “Warrior Spirit” that was dedicated to Idaho tribes. The artwork was placed on the right front nose of the jet that features a pen and ink drawing of an eagle staff the late John Sorrell created from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. The jet has flown in Afghanistan on numerous missions.