Tinker celebrates Native American Heritage Month

  • Published
  • By Jillian Coleman
  • 72nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Tinker’s Inter-Tribal Council celebrated Native American Heritage Month with a “lunch and learn” event at the chapel, Nov. 9.

Col. Stephanie Wilson, 72nd Air Base Wing commander, spoke to the efforts and improvements in diversity she has seen during her tenure at the installation. She pointed out that Chief Walter Chrysler has been instrumental in the development and strengthening of the relations between the Native American tribes in Oklahoma and Tinker Air Force Base.

“There wasn’t communication or dialogue between the two. Now, thanks largely to the chief, we have created opportunities which allow for better relations and knowledge of one another.”

November is recognized as Native American Heritage month, and the Inter-Tribal Council hosts different events as a way for members of the installation and community to learn more about Native Americans and better understand their contributions to the United States. 

Recognizing and honoring the Native American tribes are important, Colonel Wilson emphasized. The commander preached that the United States is strong because of its diversity, and though the history and the past injustices cannot be ignored or forgotten, forging ahead is important. The richness in Native American culture, the colonel said, needs to be shared. Events like the lunch and learn provide just that.

Mr. Chrysler, originally from northern New York, now lives in Wellston. The chief presented an introspective view on various Native American life.

“There are many tribal nations,” Mr. Chrysler explained, “all making up one great nation — the United States.”

Mr. Chrysler enlightened the audience with multiple items which are vital to tribes’ day-to-day lives. He shared different prayers, shawls, dances, songs and even tobacco, stating that it provides sustainability. Spiritual acts, he said, make up a large part, not only of the foundation, but also daily routines.

The chief also touched on the acquirement of animals, explaining that prayers are given to Mother Earth, asking for forgiveness in taking a life, but also in thanks for providing nutrients and food.

Assimilation has been an ongoing transition into society, the chief remarked. He honed in on the significance and impact positive relations have, and how necessary it is to their progression.

“Tinker is a huge employer for the state, and has many opportunities which can improve the lives and relations of the tribes,” Colonel Wilson added. “Taking advantage of those opportunities and fostering those kinds of relationships are beneficial for everyone.”

November was designated Native American Heritage Month in 1990, following the passage of a joint resolution by President George H.W. Bush.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, as of 2012 there were over 22,000 Native American Indians and Alaska Natives on active duty, and the 2010 Census identified over 150,000 American Indian and Alaska Native veterans. Twenty seven Native Americans have been awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military honor.