(Cushing, Okla.) The Downtown Cushing Revitalization Association is proud to announce the Inaugural Native American Heritage Festival, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015, from 2 – 7 p.m. in downtown Cushing.
The festival was the “brain child” of Valerie Branyan when thinking of ways to bring more attention to downtown Cushing. Branyan told KUSH listeners on Friday the idea came about when remembering Western Days in Cushing. Branyan said she thought it might be nice to bring that back, but since the Native American culture has been such a huge influence in Oklahoma, she decided to propose a Native American heritage festival instead.
After speaking with Marilyn Duff, with the Downtown Cushing Revitalization Association, Branyan brought her idea to the DCRA board. The idea was quickly embraced by the board and a plan was set into motion.
Duff, who appeared with Branyan on Friday’s show, announced the Grand Marshall of this inaugural event is Bill Rice, member of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma. “Bill has been in Cushing so long and has done so much for the tribes,” Duff said. “We are anxious to learn more about him and present him as the Grand Marshall.”
Branyan, a member of the Choctaw Nation, sees this event as a bridging opportunity for non-Native Americans, as well as those who may be a tribal member like herself, but may not know much about their heritage, to learn more about the Native American culture and to spotlight area tribes.
Opening ceremonies will start at 2 p.m. on Saturday with presentation of the colors by the Indian Veteran Color Guard and introductions of various dignitaries. Emceeing the event will be Jr. Pratt, pastor of the First Indian Baptist Church in Cushing, and Hugh Foley, host of Native Air on KUSH 1600.
“We are so proud to have Jr. Pratt and Hugh Foley be a part of this,” Duff said.
The event will include dancers from Sac & Fox, Pawnee, and Iowa tribes, opportunities to learn more about the Native American culture, food and craft vendors – including Indian tacos and Native American made items such as beadwork and jewelry. A limited number of t-shirts, featuring the Native American Heritage Festival design, will also be available for purchase for just $20 each.
This event is free and open to the public. Attendees are urged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy learning more about the the rich Native American heritage of our area!
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