In recognition of November as Native American Heritage Month, organizers Kristean Velasquez, Cody Dutton and Shawn Harrison held “Rise of the Nation,” a skateboarding and music event, at The Hive in Durango on Saturday.
The event was sponsored by Visit Durango; the city of Durango; Durango School District; What A Day Tattoos, owned by Dutton and Velasquez; and the Shawn Shine Show, Harrison’s skate and art-themed YouTube channel.
A skate competition was held Saturday afternoon with an assortment of prizes contributed by Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council members Linda Baker and Marjorie Berry, What A Day Tattoos and included Zippies all-purpose zip blankets and free tattoos for adult participants, as well as Native scarves and cedar sage representing Native American culture.
In the skate competition, Dutton was representing Comanche heritage and Harrison Navajo heritage, Velasquez said.
She said the event was an acknowledgment Native Americans are hosting spaces for kids everywhere, and holding the skate competition at The Hive is an example of using different outlets for healing and positive spaces where one can hone his or her focus.
“One thing that (Dutton) taught me with skateboarding – it’s really a mental game, and for (kids) to be able to execute their moves and do such a sport that’s so not for everybody ... is amazing,” she said.
Dutton said skateboarding keeps a lot of people out of trouble, too.
He said skateboarders view the world differently. A chair is simply a place to sit down for many people, but for skateboarders, it’s an obstacle or a tool for skating.
Velasquez said the day was about building community resources and solutions, and acknowledging being community-based is the way to thrive.
“It’s nice to represent Native Americans and Durango as well,” she said.
cburney@durangoherald.com
