Sustaining Traditional Diné Knowledge of the TeecNosPos Rug Design
In Diné culture rug weaving is one of the oldest traditional art forms practiced by Diné (Navajo) people today. Numerous styles of rug weaving designs embody a history and cultural story within the rugs. One design of specific interest is the TeecNosPos. Several variations of this rug design are made, but the one of interest is the design my mother produces. Our family has practiced the art of rug weaving for generations. Traditional Diné knowledge of rug weaving is often not fully comprehended or respected by most traders who often exploit Diné rugs as ways to better themselves economically. There is a danger to Diné culture, when traders claim authenticity for false imitation rugs bought from foreign markets. While this is happening Diné rug weaving is being taught less than before. My research methods for this study include a qualitative study, ethnography, and an Indigenous methodology. To discover a way to resist traders' threat, one is through educational institutions such as Diné College, which is educating Navajo students familiar/unfamiliar with their culture. The college aids students in connecting back to Diné traditions. Survival of Diné culture is important because as Diné people, this is how we define ourselves mind and spirit.
School:
Haskell Indian Nations University
Department:
Native American Studies
Research Advisor:
Antonia Darder
Department of Research Advisor:
Educational Policy Studies
Year of Publication:
2008