SJC Celebrates Native American Heritage Month

December 05, 2011

PATCHOGUE, NY DECEMBER 6, 2011 In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, St. Josephs College (SJC) recently welcomed back one of its alumnae, guest lecturer Janine Tinsley-Roe 06, a member of the Shinnecock Indian Tribe and an advocate for Native American rights.

For the past 30 years, Ms. Tinsley-Roe has been a leader in Indian affairs, working to get Long Island legislators to recognize the contributions of Native Americans while raising awareness and fighting for Indian rights on behalf of her tribe, throughout the United States and overseas.

"This is our country and we [Native Americans] are its indigenous people, said Tinsley-Roe. "St. Josephs was the only institution that I visited during Native American Heritage Month and I would love for more Long Islanders to understand and embrace our history.

In addition to the lecture, Larry Yazzie and Troupe of Native Pride Dancers performed traditional dances for SJC students. Their performance featured a colorful and energetic routine known as Fancy Dance, indigenous to the Sac and Fox Tribe of Meskwaki Nation in Central Iowa. The traditional dance is performed as a way to honor Native American elders while reflecting their rich cultural history and keeping traditions alive.