The Native American Heritage Month celebration was marked by a gathering that paid tribute to the ancestral homelands of the Nacotchtank and Piscataway peoples, as well as current Native communities. The event featured contributions from several speakers, including Stephanie Birdwell and panel members Lynn Brownfield, Jason Latona, Minnie Bowie Garcia, and Travis Trueblood. Rudy Soto also addressed attendees with significant remarks.
Lance Fisher contributed musically to the occasion. President Biden's proclamation for Native American Heritage Month emphasized acknowledging the nation's history to facilitate healing. "We must know the good, the bad, and the truth of who we are as a Nation—we must acknowledge our history so that we can begin to remember and heal."
Will McClammy, Compliance Officer at Eastern Kansas VA Health Care System in Topeka, shared his experiences navigating health care systems after military service. McClammy is Assiniboine Sioux and an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. His personal journey highlighted challenges faced by rural services in Indian Country.
McClammy's efforts aim to improve access for rural and Native veterans. He expressed his commitment to his role: "right where I need to be, right where I want to be." As VISN 15 Tribal Outreach Coordinator, he works on building trust with Native American veterans across multiple states through storytelling.
A notable story retold was that of Elwin “Al” Shopteese, a Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation member who served in World War II and later became a community leader. Al’s post-war contributions included serving on the Potawatomi Tribal Council and advocating for his people in Washington D.C., as well as establishing resources for substance abuse counseling.
The Captain Elwin Shopteese VA Clinic was named in his honor this past summer. Will McClammy shared pride in retelling Al’s story: "a Veteran caring for other Veterans, a leader caring for his community."
The celebration underscored the importance of acknowledging stories like those shared during the event to honor Native American veterans' experiences both abroad and at home. Authentic representation is vital for ensuring Native voices are heard within organizations like VA.
To all Native American colleagues at VA: "your unique perspectives make VA stronger." The organization remains committed to understanding their needs while honoring traditions and communities.
