In the quiet valley of the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT), once stood one of the largest Japanese American incarceration camps of World War II, the Poston War Relocation Center. Between 1942 and 1945, nearly 18,000 men, women, and children of Japanese ancestry were forced to live there.

This past weekend, the annual Poston Pilgrimage returned to the CRIT Reservation, drawing in the largest gathering to date. More than 100 visitors met at the CRIT Museum to honor those who have lost their lives while imprisoned at Poston. Starting the weekend off at Blue Water Casino was an introduction of the event with descendants of former incarceratees, Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Debbie Pettigrew, and Karen Harjo. Many of the adults who once lived in the camps have since passed on, leaving their children to share stories of life inside, memories that continue to move and teach new generations.

This year’s pilgrimage carries special meaning with the arrival of the Ireichō, also known as The Book of Names.

The Ireichō is part of the Irei: National Monument for the WWII Japanese American Incarceration, a national project dedicated to honoring more than 125,000 people of the Japanese ancestry who were unjustly imprisoned during the war.

For the first time, every individual’s name has been compiled into one permanent record. The Ireichō follows the Japanese Buddhist tradition of kakochō, “The Book of the Past,” in which the names of those who have passed are written to be remembered and respected.

Unveiled at the Japanese American National Museum, the Ireichō invites visitors to place a red hank (stamp) beneath each name as an act of remembrance. The book has since traveled to historic incarceration sites across the country, allowing families, descendants, and visitors to honor those who lived through that time in history.

The day began with a blessing from Duncan Ryūken Williams, the Ireichō’s co-founder and Soto Zen Buddhist priest.

The Ase S’maav Parker Boys and the River Tribes United Dance Group shared songs and danced for the descendants of Poston’s former residents. The ceremony closed with a memorable moment as children and families were invited to stamp the Book of Names.

Each year, the Poston Pilgrimage brings together descendants, historians, and community members returning to the monument to honor those who lived behind the barbed wire and ensures their stories continue to be told. What makes Poston unique is its shared history between the Japanese American community and the tribal nations whose land was used for the camp. Built on CRIT lands under federal direction, the camp became a symbol of resilience and reflection, a reminder of the injustices endured and strength that followed. (more…)

On Friday, October 3, 2025, the Colorado River Indian Tribes kicked off Native American Days with a lively celebration at Manataba Park under the tin shed, bringing together community members, families, and visitors for a day full of culture, food, games, and laughter.

The event opened with Tribal Council presentations, led by Councilwoman Raeanne Patch, Councilman Billy Beeson, Councilman Tommy Drennan, and Treasurer Anisa Patch. Their presence set the tone for a meaningful day of honoring culture and community. Following a blessing by Carol Claw Hammond, the crowd gathered for a hearty lunch of pitted meat, tortillas, macaroni salad, and beans. A feast that kept everyone smiling and full throughout the day.

Vendors brought extra flavor to the celebration with NDN Joe, who kept the crowd refreshed with his famous beverages, while Carrie Burns offered custom cups, popcorn, and sweet treats. Terri Lynn’s snow cones and piccadillys were a big hit, especially under the warm afternoon sun. Visitors also enjoyed the Hopi booth, which raffled off beautiful jewelry, and the Chemehuevi booth, which shared crafts to enjoy and make. The Regional Center for Border Health joined in, connecting with the community and offering helpful resources.

Throughout the day, families enjoyed a wide variety of activities. Native language bingo quickly became a favorite, teaching words from the four tribal languages—Mohave, Chemehuevi, Hopi, and Navajo—in a fun and interactive way. Smiles and laughter filled the air as people competed for prizes while learning more about their heritage.

The regalia presentations were a true highlight of the afternoon. Toddlers charmed the crowd in their tiny regalia while older youth and adults showcased beautifully crafted dresses and traditional wear. The pride and joy that radiated from each participant created a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength of tradition. (more…)