Native Heritage Month

November

 What is Native Heritage Month?

 Native Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to our culture, traditions and Tribal history. It provides a focused period of time to educate the public about our Tribes and raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present. Topics of education during this month can include languages, stories, music, crafts, and governance structures.

For Natives, how should we celebrate Native Heritage Month?

 First of all, I’m not going to tell another Native how to celebrate this month. Everyone has a different approach to life, education and culture. I can only tell you my thoughts and my approach.

This year my family and I are being more involved for Native Heritage Month. In the past we would attend gatherings and post “Happy Native Month” on social media, but honestly that’s not enough for us anymore.

Reposting memes and liking random appreciation posts isn’t what this month should be about.

This year my daughter and I are attending a women’s regalia making class hosted by Angelica Smith of Point Arena. She’s making a brand new dress to dance in at ceremony as well as at big times. This is the first time she’s ever made her own regalia to dance in. Proud father moment indeed.

 We’re going to use this time to practice our traditions, educate ourselves and advance the culture. We’re also going to reflect on the historical injustices endured by Native peoples, such as colonization, forced relocation, and assimilation policies.

By acknowledging and discussing these past atrocities while recognizing the resilience and strength of Native people, there is an opportunity to take steps towards rectifying past wrongs.

Learning from past mistakes can prevent our future generations from repeating the same tragedies. This is the goal of healthy discussions.

 For all the non-Natives, how can you celebrate Native Heritage Month?

 Supporting Native Communities by elevating and endorsing Native-led organizations, businesses, and initiatives can help to ensure economic and social benefits for Native communities.

 Attending and promoting cultural events such as powwows, big times, art exhibitions, music and dance performances, helps to celebrate and understand the value of Native culture.

 You can use this time to learn about and support legislation and policies that affect Native communities, promoting sovereignty, welfare, and recognition.

 Individuals can take personal responsibility to learn about Native histories and cultures, which can help dispel myths and misunderstandings. Reading books by Native authors, listening to Native activists and educators, and viewing art by Native artists are great ways to start.

 By focusing on these areas during Native Heritage Month, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society that respects and honors Native peoples and their integral place in the fabric of a diverse world.

Final Thoughts

We must remember that Native Heritage Month is a time to spotlight the contributions of Natives to contemporary society. It's important to understand that Native people are not just a part of history; that we are still here.

That we contribute to all fields such as the arts, sciences, education, and politics.

Celebrating these contributions helps to break down stereotypes and challenge static narratives about Native existence.

Happy Native Heritage Month to all my Kossins!

Acorn Conference 2023 

The 2023 Acorn Conference will take place between Friday November 10th and Sunday November 12th at Grace Hudson Museum in Ukiah, California. 

If you live in the Mendocino County area, or happen to be close by, please come by for demonstrations, art exhibitions and acorn tasting.

The conference is presented by Sherwood Valley Tribal Youth Program and Indigenous Community Initiatives. For more information please contact Monique Sonoquie at (707) 354-4904.

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Jim Thorpe - Sac and Fox

Is there a better athletic Kossin to highlight, in our very first Native Heritage Month issue? I think not.

Jim Thorpe, born on May 22, 1887, on the Sac and Fox Indian Reservation in Prague, Oklahoma, emerged as one of the 20th century's most remarkable and versatile athletes. His life story is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.

 His early life was marked by hardship. He faced the loss of both his parents at a young age and attended the Carlisle Indian School, where he would first discover his athletic talents. Under the tutelage of legendary coach Glenn "Pop" Warner, Thorpe honed his skills in various sports, from football and baseball to track and field.

 It was on the football field that Thorpe’s star truly began to shine. At Carlisle, he became an unstoppable force, showcasing extraordinary speed, agility, and strength. In 1911, he led the Carlisle Indians to a stunning victory over the powerful Harvard football team, solidifying his reputation as a sports phenomenon. His performances on the gridiron were nothing short of legendary.

 In addition to football, he excelled in track and field, competing in events ranging from the pentathlon to the decathlon. His athleticism reached its zenith at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, where he achieved an unprecedented feat. Thorpe won gold medals in both the pentathlon and the decathlon, becoming the first athlete to earn Olympic gold in both events.

His achievements captivated the world and earned him the title of the "World's Greatest Athlete."

 Despite his Olympic triumphs, his life was not without challenges. Controversy surrounded his amateur status when it was discovered that he had played semi-professional baseball before competing in the Olympics. The medals were temporarily stripped from him, but his unmatched talent and grace under pressure ultimately prevailed, and his Olympic titles were restored posthumously.

He paved the way for Native athletes and inspired generations to believe in the limitless potential of the human spirit. His contributions to sports and his advocacy for the rights of Native people continue to resonate today. Off the field, he was a humanitarian and an advocate for Native rights.

He co-founded the American Professional Football Association, which would later become the NFL, and used his platform to promote Indigenous causes. It’s an absolute shame that the NFL would choose to “honor” one of its founders with terms such as Redskins for a team name.

The name Thorpe remains synonymous with greatness in sports and serves as an inspiration to all who dare to dream and strive for the extraordinary. His life story is a timeless reminder that with talent, determination, and unwavering resolve, one can achieve the extraordinary and leave an indelible mark on the world.

Thank you Jim Thorpe, we appreciate your greatness an entire century later.

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