ALLIES AND WARRIORS

Hosted by the Smithsonian National Museum of the Native American, in New York City

On November 19th, 2024, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian hosted: Allies and Warriors: Honoring the Legacy of Native American Military Service. The event began with a presentation of the colors by the Color Guard of the American Legion, Iroquois Post 1587, led by Commander Ron Cook, an Army Veteran from the Seneca Nation.

The Shinnecock Nation drum group: Old Sound, delivered a powerful performance that resonated deeply with attendees. As Kathleen Tarrant of the NY Indian Council, Inc., remarked, “The drum is the heartbeat of our people. When we connect to the sound of the drum, we are reconnecting to Mother Earth.”

Opening remarks from Benjamin Pomerance, Deputy Counsel of the Dept. of Veterans’ Services, and Toby Weiss, Assistant Vice-President of Cultural Diversity at MJHS, highlighted the profound legacy of Native American military service in shaping our nation’s history. The event continued with presentations from Herbert Sweat of the Shinnecock Nation, Kyle Iron Lightning, Navy Veteran from the Spirit Lake Tribe, and Rachelle Pablo, Army Veteran of the Diné Nation.

The keynote address was delivered by Cheryl Dupris, Army veteran and member of the Sioux Nation. Cheryl’s speech honored the sacrifices and contributions of Native American Veterans during wartime, while recognizing the continued need and critical role of allies in supporting the Native American  community.

During a moving Honoring Ceremony, Veterans and allies were recognized for their service and support. Each honoree was wrapped in a blanket from the Sioux Nation and invited to participate in a sacred dance. Honorees also received a lei from Mālama Ola Health Services of Hawaii, and a Veterans Day Proclamation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul.

One of the honorees was Veterans Rebuilding Life’s Executive Director, Dre Popow, recognized for his military service, allyship, and his direct support of Cheryl Dupris during a critical time of need. His acknowledgment highlighted the powerful impact of allies in fostering resilience and healing within the Native American Veteran community. Veterans Rebuilding Life was deeply honored by this recognition.

The Allies and Warriors event offered an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Native American military service, and honor their sacrifices. The gathering stood as a testament to the strength of community, and the enduring contributions of Native American Veterans to our nation’s history. It reaffirmed the deep respect owed to Native American Veterans and their allies— and served as a reminder that there is still more work to do.