We are celebrating Native American Heritage Month and honoring the many ways that individuals and communities have contributed to and uplifted our nation. We are proud to honor the members of our own OTD family, first-year student Ahriyanna Bullard and third-year student Carnell (Cal)Yazzie.
Bullard's maternal grandfather is from the Lumbee Tribe. She celebrates the Lumbee homecoming every summer here in North Carolina. Members of the Lumbee community travel from all over the United States to attend Homecoming, a special time for reconnecting to Lumbee traditions, practices, and stories.
“The Tribe hosts our Native American Homecoming every year in July; it's called the Lumbee Homecoming,” she said. “It is a week full of festivities including a powwow, food trucks, handmade Native American art and jewelry, a firework show, and so much more.”
“I attend this every year because I feel closest to my heritage during this week. I also get to spend needed quality time with my pawpaw,” she explains.
Once Bullard graduates, she would love to travel as a pediatric OT. “After a few years of traveling, I would love to have my own outpatient pediatric OT clinic,” she said.
Yazzie's heritage is Navajo and his capstone will promote occupational therapy to Native students as a path to higher education and a health care profession.
"As Diné, we introduce ourselves as follows. I am Táchii'nii (Red Running Into the Water clan) born for Tł'ááshchí'í (The Red Bottom People clan), my maternal grandfather's clan is Tábaaha (Waters Edge clan) and my paternal grandfather's clan is Tó'aheedlíinii (The Water Flows Together clan). In this way, I am Diné (Navajo tribe)," he said.
Honoring Heritage
"I celebrate my heritage by sharing our history, culture, and beliefs with anyone who is interested in learning about our people. I honor where I come from by sharing my personal journey to Duke and the OTD program," Yazzie explains.
After graduating, Yazzie will continue to pursue the goals set forth in his capstone project as a valued member of the Native American community with organizations such as Triangle Native American Society and OT for Natives.
Our state is home to eight Native American tribes, with the Lumbee tribe being the largest in the state. More information about our state’s tribal communities can be found at ncadmin.nc.gov. To learn more about local events and ways to honor the Native Americans who have lived here for more than 12,000 years, please visit the Triangle Native American Society.
Visit Duke events and resources and explore Occupational Therapy for Native Americans, founded by a Duke OTD mentor.