Local tribes gather to celebrate California Indian Days

LOLETA – Members of local tribes gathered Saturday to celebrate California Indian Days.

Wiyot, Hoopa, Yurok, and Pinoleville Pomo tribes all took part in the event at the Bear River Recreation Center.

The day was full of traditional activities and food, as well as a basketball tournament for the kids.

California Highway Patrol officers also came out to show their appreciation for Native American culture and contributions.

“I feel it’s extremely important for us to continue to have this event and keep our traditions alive, especially within our children,” said events coordinator, Joesfina Cortez, “They grow up to see participating and engaging in these kinds of things and they will want to keep their culture alive. That’s what our main goal is – to keep our culture alive.”