Local Native American Culture

Did you know that New York has the largest native population and that there are still active tribes living in New York, Long Island, and New Jersey? Everyday we use or see native locations and don't realize it, like Rockaway, Canarsie, Manhattan and more. This virtual assembly is led by Reggie Ceaser (Sagamore of the Matinecock Turkey Clan) and Tecumseh Ceaser (Wampum Carver and Cultural Consultant), members of the Matinecock Tribe of Queens and Long Island, one of the original tribes of New York and the first people of Flushing, Queens. Through interactive discussions, students will get familiarized with Matinecock history, culture and customs and NYC's Native American perspectives. This presentation also creates a space to connect with Native People from the land on which many of them live and work each day. Students will recognize the relationship among Native American culture and land use, acknowledge Matinecock land, and demonstrate respect for the rights of others. This program includes an interactive PowerPoint presentation, pre-recorded footage of music and dance, and a live discussion.

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  Chief Reggie Dances With Medicine Ceaser, Sagamore of the Matinecock Turkey Clan, descendent of the Waters Hegeman family, his great uncle being Walter Robert Deer Foot Hegeman, Sagamore, of the Matinecock Turkey clan, is also a descendant of Chief John Standing Waters and Chief James Wild Pildjen who were Chiefs of both the Matinecock and Montaukett. Chief Reggie has lectured at universities and historical organizations and is a well-respected member of his community. 
  
  Tecumseh Ceaser is an Indigenous artist, cultural consultant and wampum carver. He is of Matinecock Turkey clan, Montaukett, and Unkechaug Decent. Born and raised in Queens, NY, the homeland of the Matinecock, he works in the traditional medium and practice of wampum (quahog shell) carving. He frequently collaborates with organizations to bring cultural programming to local tribes and their communities. He currently serves as an advisor for the Global Indigenous Youth Caucus at the United Nations, where he advocates for Indigenous Americans’ rights to member states, NGOs, and other Indigenous nations. A big part of his current community work has been working on cultural revitalization, preservation, and the repatriation of stolen ancestors through the Graves Protection Warriors Society. He is currently in residence at Flushing Town Hall,  Queens Museum of Art, and the Educational Programs Coordinator at Niamuck Land trust. He pulls from both traditional knowledge from Native elders as well as his experience doing advocacy work. 

  Chief Reggie Ceaser Tecumseh Ceaser