IMAGES: Native American Heritage Month marked with vibrant celebration at Warm Springs K-8
WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Warm Springs K-8 Academy celebrated Native American Heritage Month with a vibrant powwow showcase last week, bringing together students, families, and staff to honour Native American cultures and traditions.
The event filled the gym with song, dance, and tradition, recognising the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of the Native American community. Participants dressed up in traditional clothing and wore war bonnets and headdresses, as they shared their talents.
The Jefferson County School District 509J shared over 30 photos of the celebration on Facebook; see them all here.
National Native American Heritage Month began as an effort to recognise the significant contributions of Native Americans to the establishment and growth of the United States. Initially, proponents advocated for an American Indian Day. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month, and similar proclamations have been issued annually since 1994.
The Wasco, Warm Springs, and Paiute tribes have historical ties to the Warm Springs area. The Warm Springs Reservation was established by treaty in 1855, allowing the tribes to maintain their rights to harvest fish, game, and other foods off the reservation. In 1937, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon were formed, marking a new period of tribal self-government following the Indian Reorganisation Act.
The powwow at Warm Springs K-8 Academy served as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and history of Native American communities, fostering appreciation and understanding among attendees.
