August 9th, 2016, the Salmon River Central School Board of Education held their meeting at the Mohawk School Auditorium at 7pm, with a special presentation provided by the Title VII Mohawk Club students: “Changing the Name: Honoring a People- Indigenous People’s Day.â€Â This presentation was the students request to officially change Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day.
The Mohawk Club students provided the school board and community members with a strong PowerPoint; presenting facts about the man, the myths, and the history of a National holiday that started in 1937. Christopher Columbus is credited with discovering North America in 1492, and painted as a hero to students as early as 4th grade.
The Mohawk Club students pointed out that the Salmon River Central School District educates a 65% Native American population, which is the highest Native population at a school district in New York State. The movement to abolish Columbus Day has spread across the country in many cities, most recently including Plattsburgh, NY school district.
The students reiterated the Mission Statement of the SRCS, which “values academic achievement, cultural diversity, and celebrates individuality within a safe, supportive learning environment.â€Â A recent SRC graduate and Mohawk Club Alumni stated that, “We want this for the future generations of this school, and recommend the day be changed.â€
With that being said, the SRCS Board of Education broke to discuss and vote on the matter. As of August 9th, 2016, the Salmon River Central School District has officially changed Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day.
In attendance at this school board meeting were: PJ Burns, Michael Connors, Jason Brockway, Craig Jock, Emily Lauzon, Sheila Marshal, District Clerk, and Superintendent Dr. Stanley Harper. Nia:wen kowa for your decision in this matter and making it a reality for the next generations of the Salmon River Central School District.
BY: Ohseraseia:hawi
