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On November 20, the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Office of University and Inclusion hosted Delwin Fiddler, Jr. in recognition of Native American Heritage Month. This was the inaugural celebration of Native American Heritage Month at the university.

“America is a multi-cultural society and we should be appreciating the contributions that numerous ethnic, racial and cultural groups have made in the development of this great nation every day,” said John Bello-Ogunu, vice president of Global Diversity, Inclusion, and Intercultural Affairs.

Fiddler is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and a world renowned Native American performance artist.

Fiddler discussed American history from his Native American perspective, including his beginnings from an American Indian Reservation, his time at an Indian Boarding School and his personal experience in 2016 as a Water Protector at Standing Rock. He also performed songs and dances of the Lakota Native American nations.

“We were thrilled to have Mr. Fiddler come speak and perform,” said Bello-Ogunu. “It is important that we acknowledge the impact that Native Americans have had on our country. I hope that events such as this one will engage others to respect and be inspired by their culture as they have helped make this country great.”