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About Smoke signals. (Grand Ronde, Or.) 19??-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 15, 2015)
S MOKE S IGNALS NOVEMBER 15, 2015 13 Obama declares November as Native American Heritage Month By Dean Rhodes Did you know? Smoke Signals editor President Barack Obama de- clared November as National Na- tive American Heritage Month in a proclamation issued on Friday, Oct. 30. The text of the proclamation read: “American Indians and Alaska Natives enrich every aspect of our country. As the fi rst to live on this land, Native Americans and their traditions and values inspired – and continue to inspire – the ideals of self-governance and determina- tion that are the framework of our nation. This month, we recognize the contributions made by Native Americans since long before our founding, and we resolve to con- tinue the work of strengthening government-to-government ties with Tribal nations and expanding possibility for all. “Native Americans have helped make American what it is today. As we reflect on our history, we must acknowledge the unfortunate chapters of violence, discrimination and deprivation that went on for far too long, as well as the effects of injustices that continue to be felt. While we cannot undo the pain and tragedy of the past, we can set out together to forge a brighter future of progress and hope across Indian Country and the entire American Nation’s population of American Indians & Alaska Natives 5.4 million Number of states with 100,000 or more AI/AN residents 15 (including Oregon) Number of federally recognized American Indian Tribes in 2015 567 Number of federally recognized Indian Reservations 326 Number of AI/AN households in 2014 1.788 million Number of single-race AI/AN veterans 140,556 Percentage of single-race AI/AN who were in poverty in 2014 28.3 percent Source: U.S. Census Bureau landscape. “Since I took offi ce, I have worked with Tribal leaders to write a new chapter in our nation-to-nation re- lationship. Ensuring young people have every opportunity to succeed is a critical aspect of our work to- gether, and this year my adminis- tration hosted our inaugural White House Tribal Youth Gathering following the launch of Generation Indigenous – an initiative aimed at improving the lives of Native youth and empowering the next genera- tion of Native leaders. We will also host the seventh White House Trib- al Nations Conference later this Susie Shaw Independent Finance Professional Is Your “Legacy” in Order? I can help with Wills, Avoid Probate, Medical Directives, Trusts, Power of Attorney, and Life Insurance. Call 971-770-4898 For Free Informational Appointment year, bringing together leaders of 567 Tribes to explore opportunities for progress, with a particular focus on young people. As part of our agenda for providing Native youth the chance to realize their fullest potential, I have engaged Tribal communities in a range of critical areas, and we have worked togeth- er to boost high school graduation rates and afford young people more chances to pursue higher educa- tion, employment and professional development opportunities. We’re also working to expand access to health and counseling services es- sential to ensuring youth feel safe and heard. “My administration has con- tinued to partner with Tribes to address vital gaps in resources for Indian Country, including equip- ping communities with broadband, rebuilding infrastructure, spurring economic growth and increasing renewable energy. To confront the peril of a changing climate, we are also working with Tribal leaders across America to develop effective approaches to protecting our communities from this grave threat. And because we know that fostering pride in the languages, traditions and practices that make up the extraordinary richness of Native American culture is central to our shared progress, my admin- istration remains committed to ensuring every community feels connected to the extraordinary legacies they are a part of. “This month, let us reaffi rm our responsibility to ensure each gener- ation is defi ned by a greater sense of opportunity than the last, and let us pledge to maintain our strong relationship with Tribal nations across America. By keeping this commitment, and by endeavoring to shape a future in which every citizen has the chance to build a life worthy of their hopes and dreams, we can ensure that ours is a country that is true to our spirit and to our enduring promise as a land where all things are possible for all people.” Obama closed the proclamation by encouraging all Americans to commemorate the month with appropriate programs and activi- ties, as well as to celebrate Native American Heritage Day on Friday, Nov. 27. n Phone numbers wanted for Elders The Tribal Elders Committee is compiling a volunteer phone list of Elders. If you would like to submit your phone number and address to be available to other Elders, send it to elders.committee@grandronde.org or leave a message at 503-879-2231. n Paid ad Goodnight Grand Ronde Order Form Name: ____________________________________ Please mail this form to: Address:___________________________________ CTGR Education Dept. 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