By Monica Old-Elk East, Bay Mills Community College, 2024-2025 Native Student Veterans Fellow
The Naabaahii Ółta’í: Native Student Veterans Peer-to-Peer Program sponsored the Native students’ convening from February 25 to February 27, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Through this opportunity, I met fellow Native veteran students Cynthia, Lovely, and Ryan, who shared their experiences as Native veterans. I also encountered significant individuals like Bridget, Dan, and Leeanna from the American Indian College Fund, our mentor, Dr. Monte Randall, who is also the President of the College of the Muscogee Nation (CMN), and other honored guests as we reflected on our ancestors’ deep ties with the U.S. Armed Forces.
Upon our arrival at CMN, we had the pleasure of meeting the esteemed Dr. Randall and Michael Coon. Dr. Randall guided us on an engaging school tour, showcasing the campus’ intricate cultural designs and motifs. This college is one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever seen and provides education in a culturally respectful manner. The inviting campus is well-designed and continues to grow. The architectural foundation of the campus is striking and modern, as robust and significant symbols are embedded and shaped into the structure. The campus encompasses a computer room, a laboratory where rockets were developed for launch, an office that premiered in a scene from the show Reservation Dogs, and a classroom in a dedicated wing that trains educators to preserve the Muscogee Nation’s language.
After our enlightening tour of the immaculate campus, we proceeded to the Veterans Affairs Offices and Museum, where we received a warm welcome. Significant statues convey pieces of history in front of the museum. In the area where we initially gathered, a tall structure and a skylight in a round room brought us all together. Grover Wind delivered a galvanizing speech reflecting on the vital contributions of various Native people affiliated with the Armed Forces. Following his inspiring address, we toured the museum to honor and appreciate the courageous Native men and women who valiantly served. The museum staff, including historians and researchers, engaged with us and answered our questions. We returned to the initial room where Wind’s gave us the uplifting speech. Later, as we were leaving, we noticed a trailer from Reservation Dogs and paid a brief visit. We then enjoyed dinner together, deepening our connections.
On Tuesday, our group returned to the College of the Muscogee Nation. We gathered and shared significant memories using objects that represented them. I brought a pair of moccasins as a metaphor to transport others into my story briefly. I recounted a short history of my family and the importance education has supported me in my life as I shared a valuable quote from Chief Plenty Coups. Listening to the other stories was incredibly healing, and gaining different perspectives felt like a blessing. Listening to Dr. Monte Randall, Michael Coon, and JD Lopez taught me much and renewed my pride as an Army veteran. The military connections shared in their stories inspired me to grow. Following the powerful presentations, we visited the Philbrook Museum of Art. This museum was unique, showcasing significant art that conveyed valuable messages, such as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and the American Indian Movement (AIM) in Alcatraz. The museum respectfully displayed other historically substantial artworks. Bridget brought this program to life; her knowledge has greatly influenced me. She ensured we were all well taken care of and well-fed. The Naabaahii Ółta’í: Native Student Veterans Convening was incredibly healing and left a lasting impression on me.
This experience has been transformative, allowing me to reflect on my deep emotions and involvement from my service in the U.S. Army. I typically do not reflect on or share these details, but I felt safe doing so. I’ve connected with fellow warriors from diverse backgrounds, each offering unique insights from their experiences. This journey has empowered and inspired me, reigniting my pride in my former military service. I’ve learned and grown from their stories while sharing my own. Bridget, Dan, Leeanna, and all the honored guest speakers we met reminded us of the strong bond between our ancestral warriors and the military. Native American men and women have courageously served, and witnessing other strong female warriors fills me with pride. Native peoples have a rich military tradition, honorably defending our homes, communities, and families. This connection has been healing and empowering, reminding me of our military experiences and sacrifices made to honor and protect our Native lands.
