Ak-Chin Indian Community celebrates Native American Recognition Day September 28

Native American Recognition Day hosted by the Ak-Chin Indian Community happens Saturday, September 28. Come on out for a day filled with education and good times for all ages!

The celebration kicks off with a fun run/walk starting at the old fire station at 8 a.m. on Farrell Road, Maricopa, AZ.  Sign up at 7:30 to participate. After the walk, head on over to Milton “Paul” Antone Memorial Park for cultural events. These include dance group performances, artist demonstrations, information booths, and food and arts and crafts vendors. Learn more about Native American dance, art, and traditions at this interactive event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Bring the whole family, including the little kids, who can enjoy a bouncy house and face painting. Watermelon eating contests will also be on tap to help cool everyone off.

With the theme, “Celebrating O’odham Language,” this year’s event emphasizes the importance of keeping O’odham language alive through future generations.

For the first time ever, members of the Ak-Chin Indian Community achieved the first Arizona State certification of the O’odham language. A team will teach generations of members the language in a unique program through the Education Department, managed by Dr. Mario Molino. Joining him is Lusan Enos, language tech; Lerline Peters, language specialist; Felicia Vincent, language media tech; and Velacita Lopez, language coordinator. Congratulations to these individuals for gaining certification and continuing to teach the O’odham language, something to celebrate during Native American Recognition Days and all year long!

The Ak-Chin Indian Community hosts Native American Recognition Day annually on the last Saturday in September. The event focuses on sharing Native American culture and artwork with others from within and outside of the Ak-Chin Indian Community. The Ak-Chin Him-Dak EcoMuseum coordinates activities. For more information about the event, contact the museum, 520-568-1350.

Milton “Paul” Antone Park is located at 46851 W. Farrell Road in Maricopa. Don’t miss this opportunity for a great day of education and fun with the family!