Introduction
On September 7, 2024, Washington, D.C., will host a historic event that highlights both America’s first games and the cultural significance of lacrosse in Native American traditions. The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration is an inaugural event organized by the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, in partnership with the National Fitness Foundation, the National Park Service, and Council member Ben Jacobs. This day-long celebration will take place at the National Mall, featuring traditional Native American games, lacrosse demonstrations, and nutrition education. It is a day dedicated to honoring Native heritage, physical health, and cultural traditions while raising awareness of the importance of holistic well-being in American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.
The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration
The Event Details
The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration will be held from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm ET on the JFK Hockey Fields of the National Mall. This free, one-day event welcomes participants and visitors from all walks of life to immerse themselves in traditional Native American games. The focus of the event is lacrosse, a game with deep roots in Native culture, and other traditional games that represent strength, teamwork, and cultural identity.
The event will also commemorate the second anniversary of the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health, where President Biden launched the National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. The event will highlight how sports like lacrosse can encourage physical activity and promote overall well-being.
The Importance of Lacrosse in Native American Culture
Lacrosse, often referred to as “America’s first game,” has a significant cultural and spiritual role in Native American societies. The game symbolizes teamwork, strength, endurance, and respect, values deeply rooted in Native traditions. Through this event, the President’s Council seeks to celebrate these values, while also sharing the modern impact of lacrosse on health and cultural identity.
Commemorating the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health
Promoting Physical Activity and Well-being
The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration will shine a spotlight on one of the pillars of the National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health—supporting physical activity for all. This strategy aims to end hunger and promote healthier lifestyles by 2030, thus reducing the prevalence of diet-related diseases. Lacrosse and traditional Native games offer a unique avenue for encouraging physical activity while also honoring cultural traditions.
Addressing Health Disparities in AI/AN Communities
Mental and Physical Health Challenges
American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth face significant disparities in both physical and mental health. These challenges include higher rates of suicide, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and substance abuse. Mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders, are disproportionately prevalent among Native youth and adults, with some morbidities being up to seven times higher than the national average.
The Role of Indigenous Traditions in Healing
Interventions grounded in Indigenous traditions have shown to be effective in improving mental and physical health outcomes in AI/AN communities. Traditional Native American practices, like those celebrated at the One Lacrosse Gathering, build resiliency, strengthen cultural ties, and promote holistic healing. This event will honor these traditions, providing AI/AN youth and communities with a platform to connect, share, and heal.
Building Resilience through Cultural Connections
The Healing Power of Heritage
As Admiral Rachel Levine states, “Improving our nation’s health and well-being requires addressing the holistic needs of communities honoring traditional understandings and practices.” The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration exemplifies this belief by focusing on the healing power of cultural traditions. By honoring America’s first games, the event will promote mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, allowing participants to reconnect with their heritage.
Insights from Event Leaders
Event leaders like Ben Jacobs (Osage Nation) and Justin Giles (Muskogee Creek Nation) emphasize the importance of preserving Native traditions while promoting inclusivity and diversity. Their vision for the event is to highlight the lasting impact of Native traditions, particularly lacrosse, on both individual and community well-being.
The Event’s Impact on Health and Inclusivity
Lacrosse as a Symbol of Teamwork, Respect, and Inclusivity
Lacrosse, as highlighted at the One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration, is more than just a game—it is a symbol of respect, strength, endurance, teamwork, and inclusivity. These values align with the mission of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, which aims to uplift diverse cultures through sports and traditions.
Community Participation and Involvement
The event will feature participation from federal leaders, Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, and collegiate athletes. A special highlight will be the Howard Women’s Lacrosse team, which will help teach the game to youth attendees, further promoting inclusivity and empowerment. Additionally, the event will incorporate health and nutrition education, focusing on Indigenous-based meal ingredients and culturally relevant practices to encourage healthy lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the purpose of the One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration?
A. The purpose of the One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration aims to honor Native American traditions, particularly lacrosse, while promoting physical activity, cultural identity, and overall well-being.
2. Who can attend the One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration?
A. One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration is open to all members of the community, including federal leaders, Tribal communities, and the general public.
3. What activities will be available at the event?
A. The event will feature youth lacrosse clinics, community games, hands-on lacrosse sessions, traditional stick game demonstrations, and health and nutrition education.
4. How does the event support AI/AN communities?
A. The event highlights Indigenous traditions that promote holistic health and well-being, addressing mental and physical health disparities in AI/AN communities.
Conclusion
The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration is more than just a commemoration of America’s first games—it is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting physical and mental well-being. By honoring Native traditions, particularly lacrosse, this event brings together communities, fosters inclusivity, and helps address health disparities in AI/AN populations. The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition continues to play a pivotal role in advancing these efforts, reflecting the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to building a healthier, more inclusive America.
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