Olson receives "Indian name" at Oberon School

Often in area obituaries, if the deceased is of Native American descent, their name is printed followed by an Indian name that had been given to the person in a ceremony sometime in their life. A couple of examples are: person's name followed by "Winue" (oldest daughter) or person's name followed by "Itoncha Was'te Win" (Good leader Woman)

A local Sheyenne woman, Kiara Olson, received her "Indian name" recently at the Oberon Public School, where she is employed as a paraprofessional.

The Naming Ceremony in the Native American culture is an ancient tradition that has been carried out for centuries. It is a sacred event and continues as one of their traditions today. The child is given a name that represents his or her identity, lineage or personal traits by a tribal elder or spiritual leader. The naming ceremony provides the individual with grounding and purpose and reflects their personality and aspirations. These ceremonies vary from tribe to tribe and may involve specific rituals, prayers or songs, depending on the customs and beliefs of the community. In some cases the ceremony might occur simultaneously with the birth of a child while in others it make take place at a later date. Regardless of when it happens, this tradition is a significant event that provides a sense of belonging and pride for the family and child.

Olson was given her name by tribal elder, Dr. Wayne Trottier, which is tradition, but a spiritual leader can also give it. Her ceremony included the honor song played and sung by Marty Greywater, who also presented Olson with a Star Quilt. The quilt was placed on the floor symbolizing the altar. Joined by Dr. Trottier, Marty Greywater and middle school math and science teacher Brian Morial, Olson walked onto the quilt.

Dr. Trottier placed an Eagle plume in her hair and gave Olson her name, Star Bright Woman (Wichanhpi Wiyakpa Win). Following that, her name was called out to the four directions: north, south, east and west.

Olson had family in attendance for this special event along with the students and staff of the Oberon School. Olson had made special gifts for those in the ceremony and for her family and gave those out.

As tradition has it, a feast followed with stew made by her dad and step-mom (head cook at the school), along with fry bread made from scratch and fried at the school by paraprofessional Carla Bjornson and Olson and of course, enjoyed by all.

When Olson was asked how she felt about this naming ceremony taking place for her, she replied: "I felt happy and honored."