Growing need to learn about Indians

American Indian studies blossom

I.E. colleges now offering programsThe rise of reservation casinos and the high-profile politics associated with gaming have made Californians in the general population more aware of American Indians.

Tribes have reached out to outsiders in recent years, sharing their cultures through educational programs and conferences, Trafzer said.

"There's been a growing need for it, from the tribe's perspective," said Jacob Coin, a spokesman for the San Manuels. "How could we expect local governments to better understand us unless we provide an opportunity to learn about tribes?"