Far-Seeing View Has Served Well
As we look to the next millennium and dream of how the world can be, much can be learned from Indian thinking. The “Seventh Generation” decision-making process is one that has endured and served tribes well. And one that all people could learn from.
When tribal people gather together to make decisions about the future they do not look at five-year plans. Instead they ask, “What will be the impact of this decision seven generations from now?”
They realize today’s decisions have lasting effects.
Seven generations ago, Chief Andrew Seltice of the Coeur d’Alenes, Chief Moses of the Colvilles and Nez Perce leader Chief Joseph led their people in remarkable ways. In a group setting, with the advice of elders and spiritual leaders, they envisioned futures for their people.
Tribal leaders of that treaty era seven generations ago knew they needed land, traditions, education and, above all, their culture.
Chief Spokane Garry was another visionary leader. Born in 1811, Garry was among several young boys selected by the Hudson Bay Company to attend the Red River Mission School in Canada for five years. He returned a Christian. He established the first school for Indian children at Drumheller Springs in what is now North Spokane.
As contact with white men shaped the history of the region, Garry served as an interpreter. He was fluent in French, English and Salish languages. Present at many treaty sessions, he pleaded for a permanent homeland for his people. Garry, a small man, was a familiar sight on the streets of early Spokane.
Garry saw education as a transitional tool for Indians in a changing world. His vision lasted seven generations. Now, compared with any other time in history, there are more American Indian students enrolled in the region’s colleges and universities.
Because of seventh-generation thinking, Inland Northwest tribes are known nationally as the most progressive in the country. Their land base is intact. Numerous partnerships between private industry, government and tribes are improving reservation economies. Tribes have shared the wealth from gaming revenues with neighboring school districts and have expanded health services.
The seventh generation process is a tradition others may borrow for the new millennium. It lights the path during dark times and serves as a touchstone when people lose their way. The wisdom of our elders endures into the new millennium. Walk lightly on the Earth, a blessed New Year.