Annual Native American Heritage Celebration Set for Nov. 19

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL---More than a century ago they came to what was then Indian Territory from the four corners of the continent, some fulfilling treaties, others chasing unfulfilled promises. Regardless of the shadow others have cast on part of their proud history, today Native Americans have remained true to their heritage and established themselves as a modern day force for economic and cultural development.
The past, present and future of Native Americans will be honored during the Oklahoma Native American Heritage Celebration held from 11 .am. to 1 p.m., Nov. 19 in the Oklahoma Capitol Rotunda. In honor of this year’s celebration, Gov. Brad Henry has proclaimed November 2007 as Native American Heritage Month.

The event features exhibition booths, traditional Native American music and food. Scheduled to appear are Lt. Gov. Jari Askins and Secretary of Human Services Howard H. Hendrick. This year’s master of ceremonies is former Director of Indian Education for Tulsa Public Schools Archie Mason, Osage/Cherokee. Miss Indian Oklahoma 2007 Jessica Rosemary Moore and Junior Miss Indian Oklahoma 2007 Thomasann Kaudle Kaule will read the proclamation.

This year’s Oklahoma Spirit Award winners are: for education, Phyllis Perkins, Choctaw, academic advisor for Oklahoma City Public Schools; for health, Dr. John Farris, Cherokee, chief medial officer for Indian Health Services; for culture, Herman “Mograin” Lookout, Osage, language director for the Osage nation; for youth, Jessica Moore, Osage/Otoe/Pawnee/Sac & Fox, student at Oklahoma State University.  The Oklahoma State Service Award will be presented to Oklahoma Department of Health Deputy Commissioner Tim Tallchief, Osage.

The Oklahoma State Department of Education, the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, the Choctaw Nation, the Chickasaw Nation, the American Indian Chamber of Commerce, Oklahoma Health Care Authority, United Urban Indian Council Inc., Oklahoma Arts Council, Edmond Public Schools, Oklahoma Employment Securities Commission, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and Oklahoma City Public Schools sponsored this year’s event.

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