NEWS ADVISORY
Monday, March 31, 2008
Contact: Manuel Santana 408/914 1079


17 jailed after arrests at tribal
college today; Protest at jail
set for 5:30 tonight

WOODLAND – At least 17 students and tribal elders were arrested and
jailed here today/Monday for allegedly "trespassing" on the campus of
California's only tribal college, DQ (DEGANAWIDAH QUETZACOATL) University.

A news conference and protest will be held at 5:30 p.m. TONIGHT at the
Yolo County Jail (2420 East Gibson Road) by supporters who are rallying
for the release of the students.

It's the second sweep in about a month. In February, 3 students were
jailed. Their trial date in Wednesday.

Students are calling for Indigenous people and community supporters to
rally with them from Sacramento, the surrounding area and San Francisco
Bay Area.

Background:
Since starting the revitalization process in 2005, dozens of students
have remained on campus and have been able to organize workshops and
classes based in Native Philosophy and Cultural Revitalization. They are
committed to the pursuit of an indigenous education while working
towards the future as they honor the past.

In 1970, groups of Native Americans and Chicana/o students from several
universities and colleges organized themselves to lay claim to a
decommissioned military installation. Their goal was to create a
learning environment through the unified cultures of the indigenous
peoples of the Americas. Students and members of the community believe
is now their responsibility to ensure a positive future for DQ University.

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