OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Summer time means summer camp and kids at Riversport got to learn about Native American Culture in a section of their camp. It’s in partnership with Oklahoma City Public Schools’ Native American Student Services.
The partnership started in 2020 to help add Native American cultural activities into summer curriculum.
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On Friday, campers got to explore Seminole patchwork.
“It’s art… part of the lessons behind it—just cultural knowledge. We teach them it’s more than just arts and crafts, but the history behind it,” said Yafke Marks, an OKCPS Native American Advisor.
“They can tell stories. You can tell about your family just by passing by. If I looked at another Seminole lady’s dress, I could tell who your family is and tell where she’s from and things like that,” said Kaycee Kernell, OKCPS Native American Advisor.
One student at the camp loved to make her own Seminole patchwork. She also said it was fun to glue the pieces together.
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Through the program, campers get to understand the native heritage of Oklahoma.
“It’s important for us to make it known for our students to empower them by providing lessons like this so they can be aware of our own culture but also be proud to show their peers that, yes, this is my culture and I can help teach you about it,” said Kernell.
The Native American Student Services Program taught kids a different activity every day this week.