Indigenous Peoples' Day celebration at First Americans Museum
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Monday was Indigenous Peoples' Day.
It's a chance to turn the focus from European arrival to the United States, to celebrate the resilient and unique cultures of 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.
"It's really a chance to focus in on that cultural preservation and resilience of Indigenous people," said Dr. Kelli Mosteller, the Executive Director of FAM.
The red dirt state is home to more than three dozen tribes.
"Because of removals, we have 39 tribes from all over the country," said Mosteller.
The museum grounds were a hub of cultural demonstrations like stickball, a sport dating 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 stickball game to resolve that issue instead of going into battle," said Mosteller.
From the field, to the food. Visitors indulged in good eats like Indian Tacos and Fry Bread.
Vendors also set up booths to engage with the community.
"We're here to basically advocate for our tribal people to get them an education and career to get them on the right path for success," said James Red Bird of Pro Drive CDL Academy.
While the drums and the dancing were outward 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 drum group.
"Just showing that we're still here," said Carleigh Tai Flyingout, the All Nations Rezcovery Gourd Clan Sr. Princess.
"It's an honor to be indigenous. To be Native American," said Redbird.