Written by: Jordan Poyfair
On August 1st, the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma Cultural Resources Office hosted our annual SummerFest end-of-summer celebration! This event, aimed at providing a fun and culturally stimulating environment for Myaamia youth, included giveaways, games, and a guest performer throughout the afternoon.
The Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and Indian Child Welfare (ICW) departments of the Miami Tribe assisted again this year, handing out a record number of backpacks, school supplies, and extra goodies to ensure kids start the school year on a positive note! The CCDF and ICW departments provide a tremendous amount of resources and opportunities for Myaamia youth. Click the links for more information about these programs.
Attendance reached around 180 guests and staff, once again setting a new attendance record. The weather cooled off significantly from prior years, allowing everyone to enjoy being outside without melting in the heat. Carnival rides were brought in, as is tradition, to provide a true carnival feel. Carlos David, a local magician, wowed attendees with his fancy tricks. Balloon animals came to life with a balloon animal artist, and temporary airbrush tattoos made sure everyone could go home with a reminder of the fun day.
Using language to play Myaamia games was a great way for kids to earn tickets while learning Myaamiaataweenki ‘the Miami language.’ Lacrosse ball throwing games, seenseewinki ‘bowl game’ and mahkisina meehkintiinki ‘moccasin game’ were all played, and language, beading, and information tables provided cultural learning.
Mihši neewe ‘big thanks’ to Joshua Sutterfield, Cultural Education Director, for organizing the event, all of our staff, and all the Myaamiaki ‘Myaamia people’ that helped make this event a success!
Neewe ‘thank you’ to the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma Business Committee for enhancing cultural programming with financial support. We hope everyone who came had a great time, and we hope everyone has a great school year!
Be sure to mark your calendars for next year; we hope to see you!
Šaaye aawiki neepwaamikonki! ‘It’s time to go to school!”
Aacimohtaatiiyankwi 
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