Breadcrumb
Native American Studies, B.A. | Class of
Camaray Davalos
Public Relations/Editor
Employer: Great Oak Press
Job description: The Great Oak Press was established through the Pechanga Tribe as a publisher of academic titles by Native voices and topics of significance to Native Americans, as well as works of fiction, children’s books, poetry, and cookbooks. My job entails editing and reading manuscripts; creating online content and media releases for upcoming publications and newsletters; meeting with prospective authors; and organizing public events, such as book signings, panels, etc.
About Camaray
Why did you choose this program?
As a Payómkawichum woman, it was important for me to gain a better understanding of the history and legal framework surrounding Indigenous people, and how we have been affected by settler-colonization, in order to gain greater insight on what can be done to better our communities. Environment and natural resources was my emphasis and also a major interest.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
This program helped me gain a wider historical and cultural knowledge that has been key when I’m editing manuscripts. As I’m reviewing books to be published, having a background in NAS helps to ensure that the content we publish is being viewed with a critical eye before it goes out into the world. In the past, too many books on Indigenous people have been published that include damaging stereotypes and false information, and part of my job is to make sure that doesn’t happen. My program also prepared me to engage professionally with other academics and community members in a way that fosters strong relationships that continue into the future.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
The camaraderie built between my fellow Native classmates, and the discussions we had inside and out of class regarding sovereignty, building strong communities, the importance of oral tradition and philosophy, Federal Indian Law, etc. Also, the Food sovereignty project we worked on in our NAS Natural Resource Management class was so much fun; We got to cook, learn about, and eat Native foods!
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
You will learn things that were meant to be kept from you, that will upset you. But if you use this knowledge to fuel you, you will ultimately empower yourself and others.