Tsaile Students Explore Navajo Duality Through Cultural Projects
TSAILE, Ariz., Students completing a summer session course explored the duality of the Navajo way of life by studying the Navajo Clan system and creating projects that demonstrated their understanding of traditional male and female roles within their culture. The projects were the culmination of the 2025 Summer Session class taught by Ms. Leigh A. Toadlena.
Guided by the textbook “Foundations of Navajo Culture” by Wilson Aronilth Jr., students gained a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual dualism that is central to Navajo identity. The text explains how the Holy People used yellow and white corn, symbolizing feminine and masculine aspects, to form the basis of the Navajo people.
Through readings and group discussions, students learned how this concept of duality extends to themselves, with one side of the body representing the feminine and the other the masculine. Many expressed awe as they connected with these foundational teachings. The final projects allowed them to express their learning and creativity through personal and cultural knowledge.
“I am truly impressed by their learning, creativity, and thoughtful expression in completing this final project,” said Ms. Leigh A. Toadlena. She noted that the projects reflected how students engaged with the core ideas of the assignment.
The course provided students with meaningful insight into their heritage, allowing them to connect with the deep spiritual principles that define the Navajo identity.
For more information on the School of Diné Studies and Education
https://www.dinecollege.edu/…/school-of-dine-studies…/
