National American Indian Heritage Month: Affirming Native Voices: Visibility – Leadership – Service

On Nov. 21, 2024, DCAA celebrated National American Indian Heritage Month with an employee panel to share experiences, stories, and ideas, supporting this year's theme, Affirming Native Voices: Visibility - Leadership - Service. DCAA's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Council hosted this panel discussion. During the event, Ms. Jennifer Desautel, DCAA Director, highlighted the month's significance, sharing, "Native American Heritage Month is celebrated every November to intentionally recognize the invaluable contributions, challenges, and triumphs Native American communities make to the history and development of our nation."

The panel discussion featured a range of voices from different Native American tribes and histories. Sherry Calantes, who served as mistress of ceremonies, emphasized the need for spaces to celebrate, share, and reflect for these communities, "This event is not only a time to celebrate the achievements of Native Americans but also an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing challenges they face."

Jennifer Dunson, a panel member, shared some challenges facing her tribe and the efforts made to preserve their heritage and culture, "Even today, hymns are sung, and sermons are preached in the Creek language. However, as bloodlines thin and younger generations move away from tribal areas, much of our history is at risk of being lost. My tribe has taken steps to address this by offering degrees in Native American Studies and certificates in Language Studies at our tribal college."

Christopher Griffin, a panel member, echoed the importance of intentional recognition and spaces to share stories throughout the month, "[National American Indian Heritage Month] represents a time to reflect and embrace my Indian culture. My great-great-grandmother was Cherokee, and I learned about her through stories my grandfather told us."

As part of the education and sharing aspect of the event, panel member Laura Carmichael emphasized the importance of understanding the diversity among Native American tribes, "There are many different tribes, each with distinct cultures, histories, and practices. We need to recognize that not all tribes are the same. By highlighting these cultural differences, we foster greater understanding and respect."

Finally, Kathie Sumrow, the DEIA Council member representing the Native American community, closed the event with an impactful statement to attendees, "Native American heritage is not something relegated to the past - it is living, breathing, and evolving in communities across the country. Together, we can continue to honor, support, and celebrate Native American heritage - today, tomorrow, and every day."