Pictured above: Kaw Nation Secretary Little Carol Clark, Kathy Gates, Mayor Hepperly, and Kaw Nation Chair Kim Jenkins at Kaw PowWow
As an outreach to Native Americans the fall of 2022, the Foundation sent certified letters to 60 tribes that might have had students at the Mission. The letter provided information about the Mission and invited tribe members to visit. The student rolls in the Mission library include their tribe names. We asked if any of their tribe members might have had ancestors attending the school, we are seeking student perspectives and experiences for a more robust understanding of Mission history. We have received some responses asking for more information, including the rolls with the student names. We promptly sent what they requested andare planning additional follow-up on this initiative.
The Mission partners met with the Chair and other officials of the Kaw Nation in April. We discussed Kaw collaboration with the Mission partners to increase understanding among Kansans of the Kaw culture and homeland. Afterwards Fairway Mayor Melanie Hepperly and Foundation Chair Kathy Gates traveled to Council Grove, KS for the Kaw Nation Washunga Days PowWow. It was an enlightening experience showcasing not only ceremonial dances and regalia but also the strong community, spiritual, and cultural commitment among the Kaw. People of all ages attended and other tribes also participated. As guests, Fairway Mayor Hepperly and Foundation Chair Kathy Gates were honored by the presentation of serapes. Collaboration with the Kaw Nation will be a part of the Mission’s future.
