OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Monday was Indigenous Peoples Day.

It is an opportunity to shift the focus from European arrivals to the United States to celebrate the resilient and unique cultures of North America’s indigenous peoples.

Officials at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City expected 3,000 people to walk through their doors to celebrate Native American culture and heritage.

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“It’s really an opportunity to focus on the cultural preservation and resilience of Indigenous people,” says Dr. Kelli Mosteller, Executive Director of FAM.

The red earth state is home to more than three dozen tribes.

“Because of the relocations, we have 39 tribes from all over the country,” Mosteller said.

The museum grounds were a center of cultural demonstrations such as stickball, a sport dating back to the 18th century. It was once known as the ‘Little Brother of War’.

“If two communities had a disagreement, they would play a stickball game to resolve that issue instead of going into battle,” Mosteller said.

From the field to the food. Visitors enjoyed tasty food such as Indian tacos and fry bread.

Vendors also set up booths to engage with the community.

“We’re here to basically advocate for our tribal people to get an education and a career so they can get on the right path to success,” said James Red Bird of Pro Drive CDL Academy.

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While the drums and dancing were outward symbols of their native pride.

“There’s a lot of medicine on that drum,” says Eric Guy of Pro Drive CDL, who also plays drums for his family drum group.

“I’m just showing that we’re still here,” said Carleigh Tai Flyingout, the All Nations Rezcovery Gourd Clan Sr. Princess.

“It’s an honor to be indigenous. To be Native American,” Redbird said.

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