Going-to-the-Sun Institute
PO Box 2038
Browning, MT 59417
(406) 338-2058
E-mail: cbear@3rivers.net

Personal and Cultural Statement

My family and tribe instilled in me a great love and respect for my culture. For over twenty-five years I have participated in Blackfeet ceremonies and rituals, most recently as a member of the traditional society of Crazy Dogs. These experiences have lead me to take leadership in maintaining both tribal and inter-tribal traditions, at home, throughout the United States and abroad. As Director of the Blackfeet Cultural program, and as an independent consultant, I have devoted my professional life to fostering Blackfeet and Northern Plains culture through educational programs, research and work with a wide variety of organizations.

Most recently I have devoted my energies to the field of historic preservation and cultural tourism. As a catalyst for the promotion of tourism on the Blackfeet Reservation, my tours of historical sites have resulted in literally hundreds of people being exposed to the rich culture and traditions of the Blackfeet people. Equally important are my presentations throughout Montana, the United States and Europe on the culture and tradition of the Blackfeet people specifically, and the Northern Plains tribes in general. I work extensively to preserve the sacred space of Sweetgrass Hills and the Badger-Two-Medicine area of my Reservation.

Education and Professional Service

• Military service, 1965-1967
• Business Administration
  • Western Montana College, 1963-1964
  • Palomar Jr. College, San Marcos, CA 1964-1965
  • Eastern Montana College, 1970-1972
• Indian Studies/Leadership
  • Eastern Montana College, 1970-1972
  • Development Associates, Washington, DC, 1974
  • Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, 1975
• Blackfeet Tribe
  • Native American Programs, 1980-1986
  • Director, Blackfeet Cultural Program, 1986, 1995
• Tourism and Cultural Heritage Programs
  • Independent consultant and business owner, 1988-present
  • Director, Going-to-the-Sun Institute, 1995-present

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