Dear Loyola Community,
November has been a busy month here on our campus. We’ve celebrated together at Colechella, marked a milestone in our university’s history at Inauguration, and you’ve kept your heads down, devoting time to your classes as we enter the final weeks of the semester. Amidst our busy schedules, we also want to take time to celebrate the diversity of our student body and to recognize Native American Heritage Month.
This month offers a unique opportunity to honor the rich history, diverse cultures and invaluable contributions of Native Americans to our nation and our university community. In commemorating Native American Heritage Month, we not only pay tribute to the past but also commit ourselves to fostering a more inclusive and equitable future. This is a time for reflection, education and celebration.
Louisiana was home to numerous indigenous groups long before European colonization. In fact, historians estimate that tens of thousands of native people lived in the region in the 1700s, speaking 22 distinct languages. The Mississippi River and its tributaries played a crucial role in shaping the way of life for many in the area. Today, there are four federally recognized tribes and 11 state recognized tribes in the Pelican State.
Let us use this month as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue, understanding and appreciation. By doing so, we continue to build an inclusive and respectful community that values the richness that each individual brings to our student body.
Peace and blessings,
Dr. Xavier Cole
President
