Raquel Welch visits Soboba

Raquel Welch lauds Native American culture

By Victor MoralesLegendry actress and icon Raquel Welch met with Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians tribal members and spoke of the importance of Native American culture May 2.

The actress traveled to the Ramona Bowl Amphitheater, located about 90 miles east of Los Angeles for the annual Ramona Pageant to honor the play and venue that booked her 50 years before becoming a star.

Welch, 18 at the time, played the title role “Ramona,” a play adapted from a Helen Hunt Jackson novel about the tribulations of a privileged biracial Indian woman in love with an Indian man in California following the Mexican American War.

“Being part of this unique production really encouraged me as a performer,” Welch told a sold out crowd of more than 3,000 spectators, according to Soboba Spokesman Mike Hiles.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Soboba Rescues Ramona and Native Actors in Ramona.

Below:  "A 50-year-old publicity photo where Raquel Welch posed with Soboba Tribe member Rose Salgado (right)."