How Owasso Celebrates Native American Heritage Month

By Makayla Sordo

Native American culture runs deep within the roots of Oklahoma, and the Owasso Highschool shows tribute with its very own Native American Student Association (NASA). While the name may be misleading, you don’t have to be Native to join the club. Many students join to show support and cultural appreciation. So, what is NASA doing for the Native American community?

For the past five years, Vicki Graham, the teacher behind NASA, pulls together a group consisting of not only NASA and the Indian Education Department but students of all clubs, groups, etc. and teaches them the importance of honoring native people and their culture. Graham continues this endeavor by taking the students to Bell Elementary, a predominantly Native American school, where they can interact with kids from ages 3-13. Businesses all around Owasso have contributed to bringing a smile to the faces of the students at Bell Elementary, as they donate gifts to the students every year around Christmas time. 

The start of the holiday season presents itself as a perfect opportunity for the people of Owasso to show their appreciation. 

In the words of Graham herself, “We couldn't be more blessed with everyone that has helped so far with whatever is needed to help give the students at Bell a Merry Christmas.” 

If you, like many people of Owasso, want to join NASA on their journey to discovering and valuing the rich history and culture of Native Americans, the group meets in the morning the first Tuesday of every month in room 259. New members are always welcome and even encouraged; you don’t have to be Native American to be a part of NASA. All are welcome!