Honoring our Indigenous Community in the Month of November

Dear Oakland Unified Community,

No one has been in North America longer than our first ancestors, Native Americans. Last month, we celebrated Indigenous People’s Day and during the month of November we continue to honor and recognize the significant sacrifices, contributions, and achievements of Native Americans and Indigenous Peoples.

Indigenous People’s Heritage Month has been observed in OUSD since our Board of Education passed this resolution declaring the celebration in 2020. This year, President Biden issued a proclamation in support of National Native American Heritage Month affirming Indigenous peoples’ history in the United States “as defined by strength, survival, and a deep commitment to and pride in their heritage, right to self-governance, and ways of life.”

As a Sanctuary District, inside a Sanctuary City, inside a Sanctuary State, we honor the history, culture, and impact of Indigenous people in our country and in Oakland, and remain committed to supporting our Indigenous students, staff and families across the District. We also acknowledge the current contributions of the Native American community here in Huichin (Oakland). OUSD recognizes that we are located on Ohlone territory that encompasses the six Bay Area cities of Oakland, Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, and Piedmont. The Title VI Native American Education Program develops strategies to support our growing contingent of more than 700 students identifying as Native American and Indigenous.

We are fortunate to have many Indigenous People serving in our schools and offices. Teresa Hunt Littlebird of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, is one such exemplary staff member who works as an Instructional Support Specialist at Sojourner Truth Independent Study School. Ms. Littlebird shares how her heritage influences her work with young people.

“My work deeply intersects with my cultural identity as an Indigenous person. I’ve had the privilege of supporting Indigenous students who may not have had much exposure to their heritage, especially in our urban environment. Many of these students come from families that have been in Oakland for generations, far from their traditional homelands… I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment that acknowledges and respects the diverse cultural backgrounds of all students, particularly those from Indigenous communities. Through my role, I aim to be a positive role model, showing students that we are still here, resilient, and proud of our identities. I actively promote awareness of Indigenous culture and advocate for resources that support Urban Native Americans, including cultural centers and community events.”

In that spirit, we encourage students, parents and staff to celebrate the many contributions of Native/Indigenous people this month by using the resources provided in the 2024 OUSD Indigenous Heritage Resource Guide which features articles, websites, videos, reading lists, lesson plans, and highlights partner organizations that offer support.

Additionally, we invite you to save these dates for the following upcoming events:

• Nov. 29, 2024: Native American Heritage Day
• Dec. 7-8, 2024: Annual American Indian Child Resource Center Pow Wow at La Escuelita Great Room, open to the public.
• Jan. 5, 2025: Native American Heritage Night at Warriors Game

In closing, I again quote Teresa Hunt Littlebird, who said, “my greatest hope is that students and staff come away with a profound understanding that we are still here - alive, vibrant, and thriving. Our Indigenous communities represent hundreds of tribes, each with unique cultures, languages, and traditions that contribute to the rich tapestry of our collective heritage. I believe that through education and awareness, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone.”

I wish everyone a happy Native American Heritage Month

In community,

Kyla Johnson-Trammell

Superintendent