Several ceremonies and programs were held across the state, nation and throughout Indian Country on Monday in celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but none more fitting than the one held at UNC Pembroke––an institution founded for the education of American Indians.
Members of the local community joined students, faculty, staff––many of whom donned ribbon skirts, bolos, concho belts and other symbols of Native culture––for a special event in the University Center Annex.
The event featured speakers, music, an exhibition of powwow dances, art vendors, a sewing demonstration by the Coharie Quilters, and a Lumbee Tribe booth dedicated to stickball, one of the oldest team sports in North America.
Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings delivered welcoming remarks along with Dr. Ashley McMillan, director of UNCP’s American Indian Heritage Center, which hosted the event.
“I’m proud of this university and our heritage,” Cummings said. “As North Carolina’s historically American Indian university it is fitting that we celebrate today and proudly recognize the history and culture of Native peoples and their contributions to society and our university.”
Cameron Richardson, a member of the Haliwa-Saponi tribe, dressed in full regalia, proudly demonstrated a grass dance––a style he learned as a child growing up in Hollister, N.C.
“This is a great event. I’m glad that we can come together and celebrate on campus. This is a big step in Native country in the fact we’ve claimed this day as Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” said Richardson, a sophomore.
“Though UNCP is very diverse with all different backgrounds on campus, it feels good as a student knowing that I have support from others who look like me.”
Clara-Ann Boughman, a nursing student, grew up in the North Carolina mountains but maintains close family ties in Robeson County.
“I got to see some people who know my dad (Arvis Locklear Boughman). I love the dancing and the singing. This event is great for people who don’t know about Native culture. I love that they have this opportunity to learn about our culture and our traditions,” she said.
The event had a special meaning for Tammie Jump, a 1981 graduate whose parents were also graduates and longtime educators.
“It’s great that they are recognizing the people for whom this university was founded,” Jump said. “Otherwise, people like my parents who were the original teachers would not have been able to educate our children. My parents’ names are engraved in front of Old Main, so those bricks had to be laid for others to stand on for our people to accomplish everything we’ve accomplished.”
Dr. Lawrence Locklear, director of the Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity, said Indigenous Peoples’ Day affirms UNC Pembroke was established to train Lumbee people––and today serves all students–– but is still committed to its historical mission of service to American Indian people.
“Having this event today is a great way to highlight that,” Locklear said. “The turnout was great. The performers and vendors reflect who we are as Indian people.”
