Washington Parish President Richard Ned Thomas joined in the support of the Museums of Cassidy Park and the Intertribal Council of Louisiana’s Nov. 8 Native American Cultural Day by proclaiming the entire month of November “Native American Month,” and Nov. 8 “Native American Cultural Day” in the parish.

Thomas presented the proclamations to ITCL Director Kevin Billiot and MCP President Jo Ann Miller during the Parish Council meeting on Oct. 27.

The joint project will bring representatives of seven Louisiana tribes to Bogalusa’s Cassidy Park to educate visitors about the culture and to demonstrate traditional dance, games, crafts and more. Individuals will be able to check out replicas of traditional dwellings and to ask questions in the intimate setting, and everybody will get a chance to take part in the fun and games.

Traditional craft items and food will be available for purchase, but admission to the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event at Cassidy Park is free of charge.

The proclamation notes, in part, that Native Americans were the first explorers and settlers of the area that now makes up Washington Parish; that large numbers of Native Americans have defended the security of the United States by serving in the armed forces; and that “the unique spiritual, artistic and literary contributions of Native Americans, together with their vibrant customs and celebrations, enliven and enrich our land.”

Thomas also noted that Native American Cultural Day on Nov. 8 at Cassidy Park offers a rare learning opportunity, and he asks all parish citizens to join in the celebration of the “history, heritage and culture of the native people of this great country.”