Pandos MMIW+ Utah Michelle Brown Addresses Bountiful High Mascot

“Imagine googling the simple phrase “high school mascot.” An array of silly animal costumes from every beast imaginable begin to populate the screen. In addition to all the beasts used for entertaining crowds at sporting events and assemblies, picture a lone Native American more popularly known as “a Brave” at Bountiful High School.

Now imagine being a Native American from any tribe living in Utah, with the full understanding that the people in positions of power believe their portrayal of your race belongs among the lineup of the mascot beasts. It’s not a humanizing feeling.”

Read more of Michelle’s article published in the Salt Lake Tribune. 

 

University of Utah Invites Pandos to Discuss Cultural Appropriation

University of Utah Invites Pandos to Discuss Cultural Appropriation

We were thrilled to be joined by students and people of all races, creeds, and genders during our Discussion on Cultural Appropriation on Monday March 27 from 6:30-8:30 pm at the U of U Behavioral Science Building on 332 South 1400 East in SLC.

We appreciate the turnout from the community and the amazing job done by Wazir Jefferson as the moderator and our presenters:​
Ella Mendoza, Co-Founder of Utah’s Familia: Trans Queer Liberation Movement
Heilala Fu’itahi Potesio, Utah Pacific Islander Civic Engagement Coalition
Brenda Dao, Graduate Assistant for the Women’s Resource Center at the University of Utah
James Hernandez, PANDOS Education Chair
Yolanda Francisco-Nez, Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office of Diversity & Human Rights, Director​
and the closing prayer by : Butch Russell, PANDOS Spiritual Advisor

After the discussion, we had some great questions from the audience (both from those physically present and others attending via our livestream) that were coming from a genuine place of concern and wanting to learn, something we’re very grateful for.

Confront Oppression With the Power of Expression

Confront Oppression With the Power of Expression

#WordWarriors2017 #SpeakYourTruth – Word warriors, confronting oppression with the power of expression. Presented by Peaceful Advocates for Native Dialogue and Organizing Support (PANDOS). This event aimed to be a platform for dialogue regarding colonialism, race, trauma, and gender for all peoples and the community as a whole, and we’re thankful to report this was a huge “mission accomplished”

The outpouring from the community was incredible and we were thrilled to provide a spotlight to such a marvelous group of passionate, caring, and talented people. We aim to keep this event going in the form of an annual event so look for updates as they become available here at this page and at our Facebook page.

We also want to thank our amazing volunteers, Stephany Murguia, Amber Jacobson, and Ashely Finely. We wouldn’t have been a fraction of successful as we were without their volunteered time, tireless efforts, and phenomenal organizational skills.

Earth2Trump Roadshow of Resistance

Earth2Trump Roadshow of Resistance

PANDOS was thrilled to host the national Earth 2 Trump tour at Ember in Salt Lake City. We had speakers from all over Utah coming together to speak for concerns of the Trump platform and to stand together in solidarity for minority communities around the U.S.

University of Utah Invites Pandos To Facilitate Dialogue Surrounding Dakota Access Pipeline

University of Utah Invites Pandos To Facilitate Dialogue Surrounding Dakota Access Pipeline

The Bachelor of Social Work Student Association & Voices of Diversity welcomed the public to come learn about the controversy and social justice issues surrounding the Dakota Access Pipeline and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. They also accepted donations of money and supplies to support water protectors in North Dakota. Supplies collected included: blankets, winter sleeping bags, bulk food supplies, propane, winter clothing, and medical supplies.

Featured Presenters Were :
Carl Moore, PANDOS Chairperson
Jenn Jackson, PANDOS Co-Chair
Elijah Amodt, PANDOS Technology & Social Media Officer
Cassandra Begay, PANDOS Tribal Liason