On October 29th, 2023, members of The Federation of Aboriginal Nations of the Americas (FANA)and the SandHill Band of Lenape and Cherokee Indians (SandHill) attended the Annual Nigeria Independence Day Celebration (Leaders Summit for Gate Keepers). The Celebration was held at Saint Demetrius Ukrainian Center in Carteret, New Jersey.
The event was to celebrate the Seventy-Five (75) years of Independence from British rule. Those in attendance were: FANA’s Director Chief Raymond Two Hawks Watson, FANA’s Minister of International Affairs and UN Ambassador Principal Chief Dr. Ronald Yonaguska Holloway, Kings, Queens, and Princes of Nigeria, and other African Nations, Ambassadors from other Countries, New Jersey Mayors, religious leaders, and many other representatives.
The keynote speaker was the Honorable Gabe Okoye, State Rep. Atlanta Georgia. Principal Chief Holloway delivered a prayer acknowledging that the land where the event was being held was on Lenape indigenous lands and that the Creator grant all a successful Celebration. The first segment of his prayer was delivered in the Delaware language. The second segment was in English.
It was a very special gesture on the part of the event planners to ask Chief Holloway to do the blessing. It was also an acknowledgment to the recognition to the SandHill who were present. Many of the guests who were in attendance, knew or were aware of Chief Lone Bear Reevy who preceded Principal Chief Holloway.
There was a fashion show that illustrated the Nigerian fashions which was most enjoyable and that was followed by an awards ceremony and formal dinner.
The event enabled Chief Holloway, Chief Watson, and Ms. Carrie Jones to reinforce relationships with the attendees who had treaties and/or Cooperation agreements with FANA. It also established the pathways for new connections and relationships.
While at the Celebration, Chief Holloway and Chief Watson were interviewed separately by an African Media Station. Chief Holloway spoke about the SandHill being indigenous to New Jersey. He also gave an overview of what FANA is and some of the things the Federation was doing. He also addressed the class action suit with The State of African Diaspora. Chief Watson spoke about FANA’s effort to progress Its women’s council and young leaders council, and the importance of using culture as a means to build relationships between nations.
Please click the link below to see the video of Principal Chief Holloway delivering the blessing and pictures of the event.
https://youtu.be/awcw4ckdX6M?si=m85PuJf9XiOUVMcS