Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at the First Americans Museum

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Monday was Indigenous Peoples Day.

It is an opportunity to shift the focus from European arrival to the United States to celebrate the resilient and unique cultures of the indigenous peoples of North America.

Officials at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City expected 3,000 people to walk through their doors to celebrate Native American culture and heritage.

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“It's really an opportunity to focus on the cultural preservation and resilience of Indigenous peoples,” said Dr. Kelli Mosteller, Managing Director of FAM.

The Red Dirt State is home to more than three dozen tribes.

“Because of the relocations, we have 39 tribes from all over the country,” Mosteller said.

The museum grounds were a center for cultural performances such as stickball, a sport that dates back to the 18th century. It was once known as the “Little Brother of War.”

“If two communities had a disagreement, they would play a game of stickball to resolve the issue rather than go to battle,” Mosteller said.

From the field to the food. Visitors enjoyed good food such as Indian tacos and fry bread.

Vendors also set up booths to engage with the community.

“We are here to fundamentally advocate for our tribal nations to provide them with an education and career to put them on the right path to success,” said James Red Bird of Pro Drive CDL Academy.

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While the drums and dance were external symbols of their native pride.

“There’s a lot of medicine on that drum,” said Eric Guy of Pro Drive CDL, who also drums for his family’s drum group.

“I’m just showing we’re still here,” said Carleigh Tai Flyingout, the All Nations Rezcovery Gourd Clan Sr. Princess.

“It’s an honor to be local. Being a Native American,” Redbird said.

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