Recently, in Fort Totten, North Dakota, a significant cultural event unfolded as nearly 300 attendees gathered at the Four Winds High School gymnasium to witness the 21st Century Native Youth Fashion Show. The show featured almost 100 students from Tate Topa Tribal School’s K-8 after-school program, showcasing traditional ribbon skirts and shirts.
Mena de la Paz, director of the after-school program, described the event as “pure joy,” highlighting the importance of revitalizing Indigenous culture and identity through such events. “It made my heart so happy to see the drum group singing and the children coming out to show how proud they are to be Indigenous and to be Dakota,” she said.
The fashion show was supported by a UND CONNECT grant. Renuka de Silva and Julie Robinson from UND’s College of Education & Human Development played key roles in securing this funding. The mini grants aim “to inspire a sense of wonder, a love of discovery and a commitment to serve while engaging in collaborations that serve the evolving needs of our people, tribal nations and the state of North Dakota.”
Principal Byron Engberg praised De la Paz and UND professors for their efforts: “Truthfully, this is the brainchild of Mena de la Paz and the UND professors… The whole experience really helped the students make a deeper connection to their culture.”
Lorena Brown-Joshua contributed significantly by crafting ribbon skirts for all participants. Initially unsure about undertaking such a large task, Brown-Joshua embraced it with enthusiasm. “I just never wanted anyone to feel left out,” she said.
The event also featured Paige Dauphinais, an international model with Spirit Lake roots who inspired students during a modeling workshop. Dauphinais expressed her motivation: “This has meant the world to me because my whole goal in wanting to become a well-known fashion model was to bring it home and inspire my younger cousins and the next generation.”
The fashion show concluded successfully with vibrant performances and cultural displays. As young model Walutawi Herman advised: “Be proud of who you are… Be proud of the culture you represent.”
