michelle-obama-ap
Associated Press
As part of the White House Generation Indigenous (Gen-I) Initiative, First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the high school commencement address to the Class of 2016 at Santa Fe Indian School on May 26.

First Lady Michelle Obama to Speak at Santa Fe Indian School Commencement

ICTMN Staff
4/5/16

As part of the White House Generation Indigenous (Gen-I) Initiative, First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the high school commencement address to the Class of 2016 at Santa Fe Indian School on May 26.

Gen-I works to improve the lives of Native youth by promoting a national dialogue and programs to cultivate the next generation of Native leaders.

“I am so excited that First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the commencement address at SFIS,” said Democratic Party of New Mexico Chairwoman Debra Haaland, in a statement. “The young people who attend high school there are the future leaders of their tribal communities and of our state, and this experience will be an inspiring memory for them.”

Haaland also credited President Obama for his initiatives to engage tribal communities.

“President Obama has demonstrated an invested interest in Indian communities—he has consistently worked to ensure tribes have a seat at the table and that decisions affecting our communities are made with our input,” Haaland said in the statement. “His efforts have truly made a difference and will shape how future government-to-government interactions are managed.”

About SFIS

Originally founded in 1890, as a federal off-reservation boarding school, the Santa Fe Indian School is now owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. Recently honored as a National Association Secondary School Breaking the Ranks Showcase School, SFIS is a leader in Native American education and proud of its history to educate the next generation of tribal leadership. Graduates of SFIS participate in the culture of their communities and will have the skills to pursue the education and careers that will benefit them, their families, and their people. For the past five years, SFIS has had an average graduation rate of 98 percent, and over 90 percent of this year’s graduating class plan to pursue a post-secondary degree.

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bullbear's picture
bullbear
Submitted by bullbear on
It would be fitting and awesome if the wonderful Pueblo communities would present the First Lady with a fabulous Pueblo-style feast and its youth perform traditional social dances with its beautiful drumming and gripping songs. You can rest assured that Ms. Obama will experience the unforgettable hospitality that the 19 Pueblos are truly known for by other tribal nations and non-natives who are guests during each Pueblo's annual feast which are, indeed, one of the Land of Enchantment's most high treasures. Congratulations to administrators, faculty, staff, and students of the Santa Fe Indian School. Go Braves!!
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First Lady Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama
Generation Indigenous
President’s Generation Indigenous
Native American youth
Native American Education
Native American students
Santa Fe Indian School
Commencement