The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony (RSIC) on Friday celebrated Native American Day by joining tribes across the country to honor indigenous peoples of the United States.
RSIC hosted the day at the colony’s gym from 5-8 p.m. The event started with a march and included traditional pan bread making and contests for the longest hair, war hoop and drumming. Hovia Edwards, a professional Native American flutist and singer, also performed.
RSIC’s Bethany Sam said, “To us, Native Day is every day. However, this dedicated Native Day 2024 highlights the true Indigenous peoples of the Great Basin and acknowledges culture, and all of the contributions and sacrifices made by our ancestors, the original stewards of the land now known as Nevada. It’s a day to empower all people through our traditional language and culture.”
The celebration honored five indigenous groups: the Washiw (Washoe), Numu (Northern Paiute), Newe (Western Shoshone), Nuwu (Southern Paiute) and Pipa Aha Macav (Fort Mojave), which comprise the 33 tribal reservations and colonies in Nevada.
This year’s event also recognized “100 years of U.S. citizenship and the fight for the right to vote. RSIC has been celebrating Native Day in Nevada for more than 15 years.
Source: RSIC
