“If it’s burning, it’s smoking,” Debbie James reminded the workshop class. It was great advice as the Huhugam Ki: Museum kicked off their teen tortilla camp on July 14 for a week full of fun. 

Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community youth ages 15 to 17 signed up to learn how to make tortillas, or cemait in O’odham, from the Huhugam Ki: Museum and Cultural Resources staff. Museum Specialist James and Museum Assistant Candice Manuel led the workshop with assistance from Multimedia Specialist Tasha Silverhorn and Cultural Resources Secretary Raina Thomas.

Students were provided with ingredients to make the dough and asked to bring trays and bowls from home. Students arrived early at 6 a.m. on a cloudy morning, eager to learn. Students followed directions closely, preparing their dough and with allowing it time to rest. Students began flattening the dough into a circular shape to form a cemait. James expressed, “If they ask, we’ll help,” ensuring all the students felt supported and confident throughout the workshop sessions, as they were all beginners.

Each student worked at their own pace and with a smile. After the students finished cooking, cleaning their areas, along with washing their dishes, they were able to have a seat and chat. Workship leaders James and Manuel asked the students what was the most exciting part of the process. Their answers included, “Making the dough and cooking it” to “Being able to taste the final product.” After they were done for the day, the students were allowed to take home their cemait to their families.

At the end of the workshop the students received a certificate for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning and participating in the camp.