Walking in contemporary and traditional worlds alike, Litefoot embodies what young Native Americans strive to become a humble role model, American Indian Student Support Services specialist Dari Bradley said.
AISSS sponsored the visit from Gary Davis, known as Litefoot, who spoke Wednesday on the Tempe campus about the importance of pride and humility.
Davis said it is important to not be too proud to ask for help and utilize resources, especially if you are a student.
“Take advantage of all the programs ASU has to offer in your field of endeavor,” he said. “It is important to educate your mind and broaden the scope of what you know to be possible in this world.”
Davis is a rap artist, actor, entrepreneur and role model to Native Americans all over the country for showing pride in his business and “sticking to his roots,” Bradley said.
“I knew I wanted to bring Litefoot to ASU the first day I started working for AISSS,” Bradley said. “Litefoot shows the ability to stand for what you believe in, not what the world tells you to believe in.”
Davis was the star of “The Indian in the Cupboard” and “Mortal Kombat: Annihilation.”
Davis was the first Native American rap artist to acknowledge his ingenious roots, and it is shown through his lyrics and musical style. He incorporates a mix of hip-hop and his own native culture to produce what he calls “tribalistic funk.”
Davis is now the President and CEO of The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, a national nonprofit organization based in Mesa, Bradley said.
“Litefoot showed resilience and dedication to his roots throughout the beginning of his career,” Bradley said. “It certainly paid off.”
Bradley said she agreed with Davis — Native American students should take advantage of their resources.
“Sometimes, Native American students wait too long to seek the resources that they need,” she said. “The AISSS is here to help the Native American students at ASU receive the services and support they need to succeed.”
Sustainability sophomore Greg Chavez said Davis has proven himself as a successful businessman.
“It was a very cool speech,” Chavez said. “I liked how Litefoot tied in his career experience with his core philosophy of, if you want something bad enough, no one can stop you from getting it.”
Reach the reporter at gqolson@asu.edu
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