JBSA kicks off Texas American Indian Heritage Day

Photo By Senior Airman Gabriel Jones | Brody Screaming Eagle, Great Promise for American Indians Grass Dancer, prepares to perform at the 7th Annual Texas American Indian Heritage Day dance exhibition at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, Sept. 26, 2024. Originally a Warrior Society Dance, the Grass Dance is believed to have evolved from the movements need to stomp down prairie grass before a dance could be held. Afterwards, dancers would tie the grass to their regalia. The JBSA event kicks off state-wide celebrations recognizing the historic, cultural and social contributions American Indian communities and leaders have made to the state. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Gabriel Jones)  

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, TEXAS, UNITED STATES

09.26.2024

Story by Kathryn Reaves 

502nd Air Base Wing

The Joint Base San Antonio American Indian Heritage Committee hosted the 7th Annual Texas American Indian Heritage Day dance exhibition in front of the Taj Mahal at JBSA-Randolph, Sept. 26.

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry signed House Bill 174 in 2013, officially designating the last Friday in September as American Indian Heritage Day. According to the act, the day recognizes the historic, cultural and social contributions American Indian communities and leaders have made to the state.

Edward Blauvelt, JBSA American Indian/Alaska Native Special Emphasis Program manager, said the JBSA event kicks off state-wide celebrations.

“We do the initial blessing for the whole event and it’s just to highlight Native American culture here in Texas,” said Blauvelt.

To the beat of drums, Great Promise for American Indians dancers, donning traditional attire and regalia, performed a variety of dances representing their cultures. These dances included Men’s Fancy Dance, Women’s Northern Traditional, Women’s Buckskin, Jingle Dance and Grass Dance.

Following their performances, guests, including JBSA commanders and local government officials, were offered the opportunity to join the circle.

The celebration also honored the memory of four Native American veterans with a moment of silence and a memorial photo display.

Jeffrey Johnson, JBSA American Indian Heritage Committee chairman, said similar events serve as important educational reminders that the Native American people are still here, supporting their tribes and serving the United States of America.

• Date Taken: 09.26.2024
• Date Posted: 09.27.2024 10:25
• Story ID: 481938
• Location: JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, TEXAS, US