American Indian/Alaska Native Emphasis Program

As a member of VT’s Civil Rights Committee, it is my honor to serve as the American Indian/Alaska Native Special Emphasis Program Manager.  The role of the Special Emphasis Program Manager is to foster the value of diversity within NRCS, promote cultural awareness, and support equal opportunity in NRCS program delivery and employment.  This is accomplished by establishing and maintaining a network of professional support and effective relationships with American Indian and Alaska Native Organizations and groups.

NRCS celebrates Native American/Alaska Native Month in November

In 1986, President Reagan designated November 23-30 as American Indian Week. Four years later, President Bush proclaimed the first National American Indian Heritage Month. Each year since, U.S. Presidents have proclaimed November as American Indian Heritage Month.  Also, as part of this celebration, each year native artists from around the country submit their artwork to the annual poster contest.  After a selection is made, the winning poster is distributed for display.

2006 Winner of the National Poster Contest

"The Gifts of Mother Earth" Poster

A painting by Lori Sawyer, a member of the federally-recognized Poarch Band of Creek Indians, was the winner in an art contest for the 2006 American Indian Poster which will be distributed by USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in November 2006 during American Indian Heritage month. The painting is entitled “Gifts of Mother Earth” and features American Indian children playing in Magnolia Branch near Atmore, Alabama.

VT Diversity Day 2007

The Vermont NRCS employees experienced their first statewide Diversity Day.  The day hosted many speakers and presenters, one of which was Howard Lyons.  Howard, an accomplished musician and lecturer, is a member of the 6 Nations Iroquois Confederacy, Mohawk Nation, Wolf Clan, Haudenosaunee.   He shared with employees, songs in his native language, history of the formation of the Iroquois Confederacy, lessons of our human connections with nature, and provided an opportunity for everyone to gain insight into his Mohawk heritage and culture.

Native People in VT

Guide to USDA Programs for American Indians and Alaska Natives

Tribal Colleges and Universities

A reference Guide for NRCS Employees

Other Web Sites of Interest

Vermont Special Emphasis Program Managers