Huntsville Center employees gathered to learn about the culture of Native Americans during the Huntsville Center Equal Employment Opportunity office sponsored 2014 Native American Indian Heritage Month program Nov. 18.
Attendees also gained a greater understanding of the suffering the people of the Five Civilized Nations underwent during a dark chapter of American history.
The Five Civilized Nations were the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole, which were considered civilized by Anglo-European settlers during the colonial and early federal period because they adopted many of the colonists' customs and had generally good relations with their neighbors.
With poignant performances by Native American artists Aiden Mertz, Audrey Reynolds and Jeff Whaley, the audience learned how American Indian tribes have come together to blend cultural dance.
The keynote speaker for the occasion was Stan Long, chief, Cherokee Tribe of Northeast Alabama. Long serves as the Principal Chief Commissioner of the Alabama Indian Affairs Commission and is also a licensed counselor.
Long reminded participants to try to understand the sacrifices made by the American Indians - many gave their lives trying to keep what was originally their land. They have come a long way since the Trail of Tears, but still have a very long way to go toward gaining equality in America.
"I don't like the term Native American Long explained, because this term describes anyone who was born in the United States. I like the term American Indian because it means you have our blood” explained Long, who went on to explain how he is working to improve the culture by lowering the unemployment rate, addressing poverty issues; and getting more governmental funding, education grants and job opportunities for American Indians.
Long also spoke about incorrect stereotypes often put on American Indians and encouraged the audience to read upon the the history of his people. Everyone should educate themselves on the customs and traditions of American Indian tribes that exist within our Nation.
Also part of the program was a historical presentation by Amanda Morrow, an archaeologist from The University of Alabama, Moundville Archaeological Park. Morrow gave participants an understanding of basic principles of archaeology and what distinguished different prehistoric Indian cultures from one another.
Huntsville Center deputy commander Lt. Col. Kendall Bergmann recognized Long, Morrow and the cultural dancers' contributions to the program and provided them with Certificates of Appreciation for their participation in the program.
“Native Americans have made great contributions to our Nation. This is a great opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to this nation, but also to the U.S. Army. I have a very high regard for their culture and respect their customs and traditions,” he said.
For more information about the Huntsville Center Equal Employment Opportunity Office's Special Emphasis Committee events, contact Angela Morton, 256-895-1573.