This marks the first public announcement of our efforts to launch an annual event commemorating the historic Trail of Tears Indian relocation program of the 1830’s. The Trail of Tears was a phrase coined to describe various pathways along a multi-state route walked by Native American Indians on their way to land set aside for them in Oklahoma. This generic term Trail of Tears, encompasses what is known today as the five civilized tribes – Cherokee, Chickasaw, Chocktaw, Creek, and Seminole.
Why are we commemorating this event?
Our foundation’s mission is to support Native American youth throughout the country by providing programs for education, counseling, and cancer research for children.
As a group, Native Americans suffer with infant mortality, poverty and suicide rates that are triple the national average. And their incidents of childhood cancer are higher than most any other ethnic group. We want to share the impact Native American history has had on the Natives and Americans alike. Our event commemorates Native American history and culture while raising funds to restore hope and provide a more promising future for Native American youth.
The 2014 Trail of Tears Remembrance is our first effort at bringing attention to the needs of the Native American community. The event will include an opening ceremony in Cherokee, North Carolina which will be the starting point for a series of charity walks and rides along the 2014 trail, traveling West, starting in Cherokee, North Carolina, to Tahlequah, Oklahoma. There will be speakers, Native American art, music and dance, along with the torch of Enduring Spirit. The torch will follow us as we navigate through seven cities, our mid-point ceremony in Memphis and our closing ceremony in Tahlequah.
We are currently in the process of seeking corporate sponsorships that are available at various levels of participation. We hope you will join us as we embark on this annual journey to support our Native American youth.
Would you like to get involved?
The Sheena V. Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit. – Help us to enrich the lives, strengthen the hope and fulfill the dreams of Native American youth.
