Southampton celebrates Shinnecock Heritage Day

                Southampton High School celebrated an inaugural Shinnecock Heritage Day during a special assembly on Oct. 1.

                During the event, special guests spoke about the importance of the federal recognition program, its history and eligibility qualifications. Those speaking included sunksquaw Linda Franklin, students Ja’Laya Reddick and Yanabah Cuffee, Shinnecock language and culture teacher John Boyd, and Shinnecock elders Marguerite Smith and Dr. Roberta Hunter. Also in attendance were Shinnecock Chairwoman Lisa Goree and Board of Education Germain Smith.

Additionally, Southampton Village Mayor William Manger Jr. presented Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fatima Morrell with a proclamation declaring Oct. 1 as Shinnecock Heritage Day in the Village of Southampton and in the Southampton School District.

The assembly rounded out with a closing honor song and traditional dance performed by students Noomie Williams and Kodiak Tarrant-Papasodora.

“It was a tremendous community event that was embraced by our faculty, students and larger community,” said Principal Brian Zahn.

                The district plans to continue the tradition of recognizing Shinnecock Heritage Day every Oct. 1.