LUMBEE NEWS
(September 2009) The Cultural Enrichment Department of Youth Services Programtravel to Fayetteville,NCandJacksonville, NC on two separate occasions to present and enrich at cultural events held by branches of the Armed Services in appreciation for the services others have rendered.
In late September, Tribal Councilmember Furnie Lambert, Youth Services Coordinators John Oxendine and Terry White, and Lumbee Boys & Girls Club member Patrick Greene(pictured right) traveled to the VA Medical Center in Fayetteville for the “Multi-Cultural Employee Appreciation Day.”
“I had an appointment that day; I could remember hearing them, so I looked out the window and there they were, I managed to catch them performing for everyone and was able to feel the sound of the drum, I remember thinking isn’t this wonderful that we could come here to show our appreciation for what they’ve done,” reflected Chairman Jimmy Goins. Oxendine and White gave a presentation of the history of the Lumbee Tribe followed by a performance of Men’s Eastern Woodland, Traditional and Grass.
“Our Veterans went to great lengths to take care of us in the past and now these employees are ensuring the care of them,” commented Oxendine, “and that’s what it’s about-- keeping the circle of appreciation going.” Oxendine and White also performed a Social Dance with the employees to further recognize their services rendered to the Veterans. The Social Dance is also known as a Friendship Dance for its symbolic meaning.
In the following weeks, Oxendine and White traveled yet again. This time they brought along Lumbee Boys & Girls Club member Patrick Greene, Junior Miss Lumbee Madison Davenport(pictured left)and Culture Class member Ashley Locklear(pictured below in pink) to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune concerning “Multi-Culture Day” for the military. “We wanted to show our indebtedness to all of those who serve our country and create awareness that American Indians are still out there fighting not only for our country but our continued freedom,” stated White.
Oxendine and White presented the history of the Lumbee Tribe, once again to create awareness of who the Lumbee people are and where they originated from. Shortly after, Davenport and Locklear performed Women’s Traditional and Southern. Then Patrick Greene, Oxendine and White performed Men’s Traditional, Grass and Eastern Woodland. “It was an honor to have the opportunity to participate in an event that appreciates all cultures, namely American Indians serving our country for the benefit of others,” remarked Oxendine. Various other cultures were represented; some of who were Hawaiian, Hispanic, African American and Caucasian.
For more information on the Department of Youth Services and its programs please contact, John Oxendine at 910.522.2217.
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Department of Youth Services at it Again
