Southern Oregon University will observe Indigenous Peoples Day during an event that starts 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 9, in the school’s Stevenson Union Building courtyard.
Indigenous Peoples Day amplifies Indigenous voices and celebrates the historic, cultural, and contemporary presence of Indigenous peoples and Tribal nations, who have persevered in the protection of Indigenous rights and cultural sovereignty, and continue to make significant contributions to the world.
This year’s celebration will be the sixth official observation. It will start with a salmon bake — plates are $8, cash only; no charge for Elders. SOU alumna Lupe Sims — a descendent of the White Mountain Apache Tribe — will deliver opening acknowledgements, followed by an honor song, performed by Screaming Eagle (the Jackson family of Klamath Falls.) David West, a citizen of the Potawatomi Nation and director emeritus of SOU’s Native American Studies Department, will deliver the opening prayer. Ed Little Crow will offer a traditional meal blessing.
SOU provost Susan Walsh will read a land acknowledgment, and SOU president Rick Bailey will share remarks during the formal flag dedication.
The celebration will continue with remarks from revered Tribal Elders; Oregon State Rep. Tawna Sanchez, D-Portland (Shoshone-Bannock, Ute, and Carrizo); Terry Cross, member of the Seneca Nation and founder and senior advisor of the National Indian Child Welfare Association; and Shane Lopez-Johnston, member of the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, who will represent Native American Rehabilitation Association Northwest. The speakers will address continued stewardship of voices for equality within – and in support of – Indigenous communities.
SOU student-driven initiatives during the event will include a formal dedication of Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes, to be led by David West and Ed Little Crow, with appointed Tribal Council and/or Tribal community member dignitaries from each of the nine Tribes.
The Klamath Tribes Youth Council will share a cultural presentation and community round dance, and stand in support of the Tribal youth presenting from the Ashland School District’s Native American Student Unions. Children’s cultural activities will also be available in the Stevenson Union ASSOU center.
