USDA Rural Development in South Dakota is celebrating the Annual Native American Heritage Month of November through traditional stories, original Native American artwork and friendly competition, helping those inside and outside of USDA to learn and enjoy Native American history and culture. This sharing will continue throughout the month of November, culminating with a Native American interactive day on Wednesday, November 28, which will include traditional teachings, a light meal, and fun-filled games for all participants.
South Dakota Rural Housing Specialist Kenneth Lynch, a respected Tribal member of the Red Cliff Band of Chippewa Indians from Red Cliff, Wisconsin is organizing the month’s activities. Ken is one of the leaders of the Loon Clan, and has the Bear as a totem, or Spirit Animal. He has been given responsibility for leadership and protection of his family and tribal members. Ken is very proud and honored to have this responsibility within his tribe and enjoys educating others and sharing his culture.
Many of Ken’s outside interests revolve around cultural activities that relate to his Native American heritage. He is an accomplished artist specializing in pen and ink drawing and is an avid Harley Davidson ‘biker’.
In celebration of the month, Ken has posted several pieces of his original Native American artwork for viewing. This art will be displayed throughout the month and also includes the donated drawing for the winner of his Native American Crossword and Trivia contest. Ken has shared “passed down” traditional stories from his tribal elders and photos of his nieces and nephew in their native regalia. Those photographs were taken at their recent annual traditional Pow Wow which was themed “Honoring Our Veterans.” Ken will continue sharing Native American history and stories throughout the remainder of the month.
This year’s Native American Celebration Month’s poster reflects on the past, present and future with the quote, “Tell me and I’ll forget, Show me and I may not remember, Involve me and I’ll understand.” Ken takes great pride in his Native Heritage and strives to share and educate all others willing to learn about Native American culture.
President Obama has designated this month as Native American Heritage Month. To read the proclamation click here.
