IAMNDN Sings for Area Residents

On December 18, IAMNDN went caroling around Madische for Christmas.

IAMNDN Youth Council Co-President Arlene Schonchin stated that the activity was decided upon at a meeting.

“And we just wanted to spread Christmas cheer because Christmas is right around the corner, so we just wanted to bring back to our community,” she said.

Schonchin said the youth being together is her favorite part.

“Having a good time and doing what we do best and thinking and just spreading our language and culture to everyone,” she said.

Schonchin’s favorite part of Christmas is being around her family.

“Having all of us in the same, under the same roof and just having fun because every year we do Christmas games and we make cookies and we watch movies,” she said. “And it's just all of us having a good time together.”

Schonchin was excited to see all of her friends and the reactions of those who watched the caroling.

"If they're going to laugh, if they're just going to smile or something," she said.

Schochin said it’s important for the youth to be active in the community.

“For one, they can build up the courage to come out of their shell and do something. So that's basically what IAMNDN is.We preserve our culture and our language, and we really get out in the community,” she said. “And that's really helped me get out of my shell because before this, I was just shy, and then with IAMNDN, we all tease each other, and we just have a good time together. So, one, we can come out of our shell, give back to our community, and two…to meet other people, other natives, other youth natives. So just to know your community, know your people.”

The event was tied into their motto of “Be the Change.”

Schochin said Christmas Caroling gives them something to do and gets them involved in the community.

 She wanted to thank Martin Flores for supporting the group and their schedules.