SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
The 82nd Training Wing is hosting this year's National American Indian Heritage Month event on Nov. 19 at 1:00 pm at Sheppard Elementary School.
This year's theme is "Serving Our People, Serving Our Nations: Native Visions for Future Generations." The event will feature local American Indians from the Comanche Nation performing a variety of traditional and cultural dances narrated by Mrs. Jolene Schonchin.
The event is free and all Team Sheppard members, including their families, are invited to attend.
"The purpose of the events planned this month is to educate Airmen, at all levels, about the different cultures and ethnicities that make up today's Air Force," said Master Sgt. Gary Sapone, 82nd TRW Equal Opportunity (EO) superintendent. "The event raises awareness of the unique opportunities afforded to us by our diversity and to recognize the past accomplishments that we have seen strengthened by our diversity."
The event is being hosted by the 782nd Training Group.
"My team was honored to be able to plan the celebration of our proud Native American history, integral to both U.S history, and the history of this area as well," said Col. David Murphy, 782nd Training Group commander. "Many hours of work and dedication went into this planning, and we are looking forward to honoring Native Americans and learning more about their unique and beautiful customs."
"The committee is doing a great job of putting together an event that features a never-before-seen lineup of performers," said Master Sgt. Michael Yates, 366th Training Squadron and National American Indian Heritage committee chairman. "It's a great opportunity for Team Sheppard members to learn more about one of the many diverse cultures that make up our Air Force and to have a great time."
The importance of cultural awareness can not be overstated.
"Without a doubt, recognition of cultures strengthens the bonds of teamwork and promotes an environment of positive human relations," Sapone said. "I can't emphasize enough that we want our attendees to walk away educated about a cultural practice or tradition that's different from the ones they're accustomed to. Events like National American Indian Heritage Month enable members of Team Sheppard to get a better understanding of cultures that are different from their own."
There will be other events throughout the month to include weekly readings at the library on Thursdays beginning at 10:00 am. On Nov. 17, there will be a special storytelling and dance led by Native American's from Team Sheppard.