12th annual California Native American Day

1,000 celebrate Native American Day in San Bernardino

By Michel NolanSouthern California Bird Singers, Yurok Brush Dancers and storyteller Jacque Nunez reached into their cultural past on a balmy Friday evening at Cal State San Bernardino.

The 12th annual California Native American Day celebration, on the university's grassy Lower Commons area, brought the culture of the state's indigenous people to those attending the California Native American Day Celebration.

The Friday evening festivities culminated the weeklong California Cultural Awareness Conference, which creates awareness of the culture, heritage and traditions of the California Indian.

Each year, the free event attracts about 1,000 people.Inland California Native American Day celebrations set

By David OlsonMore than 1,500 schoolchildren from Riverside and San Bernardino counties were expected to attend educational and cultural programs this week at Cal State. Ramos said it's vital to instill an awareness and appreciation of Indian history at a young age, and to present historically and culturally accurate information.

"This is the way you start to build mutual respect and understanding," Ramos said by phone during a break in teaching children about traditional Southern California Indian music. "They walk out understanding a little more about who we are, and it's important for them to have face time with California Indian people. It starts to break down misconceptions."Comment:  For similar holidays, see History of Native American Heritage Day and Happy National Aboriginal Day!

Below:  "Wally Antone, right, of the Quechan Tribe, and others sing Native American bird songs Friday during the California Native American Day at Cal State San Bernardino." (Al Cuizon Staff Photographer)