Kenya Perezgil participated in sweat lodge ceremonies in her family’s backyard for as long as she can remember. Inside the dome-shaped hut, a fire pit burned lava stones infused with a herbal tea mixture to cleanse their spirits and connect them with their ancestors.
“My parents taught me that I am the reflection of the Earth, the Creator and to always acknowledge the natural world’s elements,” said Perezgil, a child and adolescent studies student at Cal State Fullerton. “All Native and Indigenous tribes rely on the natural world to sustain all that exists, and it is our responsibility to keep Mother Earth alive and well.”
Since she was a young girl, her parents instilled values that are rooted in community, leadership and respect. Over the years, she became a staunch advocate for increasing cultural awareness and preserving Native American lands in Mexico, Colombia and Peru.
After transferring from the College of the Desert to Cal State Fullerton, Perezgil wanted to connect her Indigenous roots with her experience in higher education. She discovered the Inter-Tribal Student Council, a student-led organization that champions Indigenous and Native culture. Perezgil serves as president of council and had the opportunity to deliver a land acknowledgment at the university’s 2024 Convocation and State of the University.
“Native and Indigenous people are in the process of collectively regaining our culture, power and resources,” said Perezgil. “I actively encourage all students to absorb the deep history and wisdom about the land we are standing on.”
The club’s general meetings consist of educational films, talking circles, powwow dances, social outings, nature walks, workshops, and conversations with representatives from the Native and Indigenous communities.
“The Inter-Tribal Student Council exists for us to support each other through our educational journey while learning more about the diversity of Native culture,” said Perezgil.
Plans are underway for a new Native American and Indigenous Resource Center in the Pollak Library as part of Diversity Initiatives and Resource Centers’ expansion efforts. Until a new center opens, students can access resources through Native American and Indigenous Student Services.
The Healing Force of Horseback Riding
With plans to graduate in spring 2025, Perezgil aspires to become a licensed therapist specializing in equine therapy for youth. She felt inspired to care for generations of families through the Native philosophy that children are Earth’s protectors.
“I would like to honor the Native philosophy and be an advocate for children and families,” she said. “My intention is to promote harmonious connections within families.”
She envisions equine therapy as an accessible and transformative counseling practice through the healing force of horseback riding.
As a horse owner for over eight years, Perezgil understands the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding and interacting with horses. She explained that horses function as mirrors, motivating people to reflect on their thoughts and behaviors.
“Horses are highly sensible animals that emit peace and tranquility to any person in their surroundings,” said Perezgil. “Horses helped me build my confidence and shift my mindset to an ‘I can’ attitude.”
Perezgil credits CSUF for enriching her education with hands-on therapy experience.
To obtain her degree, Perezgil practiced 60 hours of applied behavior analysis therapy for children with autism.
“I learned that working with children with autism is a very fulfilling experience, and it brought me to tears of joy when I saw progress within my client,” Perezgil said. “I was patient and detailed during my sessions with him. We quickly built a bond and I wish our connection would last forever.”