Other Highlights
MAYOR ANTONIO R. VILLARAIGOSA
City of Los Angeles
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2009
CONTACT:
Rachel Kruer
(213) 978-0741
MAYOR VILLARAIGOSA KICKS OFF NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Los Angeles has the largest urban Native American population in the country
LOS ANGELES - Launching a month of cultural events spread throughout Los Angeles, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa kicked off the City’s Native American Heritage Month celebration, sponsored by The Walt Disney Company, at a ceremony held at City Hall.
"For many years, native peoples were persecuted for speaking their language, participating in their ceremonies and upholding their traditional values. From the infamous Trail of Tears to the BIA boarding schools, the Native American community has refused to surrender its hope and its dignity," Mayor Villaraigosa said. "Their survival in the face of adversity is remarkable and truly inspiring. Los Angeles is forever grateful to have tribal leaders in business, education and public policy."
In his remarks at the opening reception, the Mayor commemorated UCLA's American Indian Studies Center, a research and academic institution dedicated to culturally appropriate research, information distribution and community service for and about Native Americans, on their 40th anniversary. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the American Indian Community Council, a non-profit organization that provides mentorship and advocacy training for American Indian youth, parents and community members.
Los Angeles is home to the largest urban Native American population across the nation. The Native American community of Los Angeles is comprised of more than 140,000 people who claim Native American ancestry, with an Native American population in Los Angeles County that has nearly doubled since 1990.
In 1990, the federal government formally designated November as National Native American Heritage Month. Los Angeles has had a City/County Native American Indian Commission for 30 years. Three years ago, Mayor Villaraigosa was the first Mayor of Los Angeles to recognize and declare Native American Heritage Month.
Throughout the month November, the Department of Cultural Affairs is offering music classes for young people highlighting traditional Native American music as part of its Music LA program sponsored by the Walt Disney Company. The classes will emphasize music history, performance skills, and the application of various traditions. The public can visit www.culturela.org for details.
For more information on Heritage Month events visit the Los Angeles City/County Native American Indian Commission at www.nativeamericanindian.us.