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To: Superintendents, Principals, K-12 PIOs, Charter School Leaders, Education Partner Leaders and Communicators
From: Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education
Date: May 10, 2024
Re: Reminder - Tribal Regalia for Native Students at Graduation
Dear District Leaders and Education Partners,
We're reaching out to provide essential guidance concerning the use of culturally significant tribal regalia by Native students at graduation ceremonies, as mandated by the passing of House Bill 2052 (HB 2052). This legislation requires that all Oregon school districts permit Native students to wear tribal regalia during graduation ceremonies. It is aligned with Oregon’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, cultural understanding, and respect within our educational system, and honors and uplifts the cultural identities and traditions of American Indian and Alaska Native students and families.
To ensure the smooth implementation of HB 2052, please utilize the following guidance:
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Compliance: All school districts within Oregon must adhere to the provisions of HB 2052. It's essential to review your district's policies and procedures related to graduation attire and make any necessary updates to align with this new law.
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Communication: Promptly inform your school community, including students, families, staff, and graduation ceremony participants, about the passage of HB 2052 and the allowance of tribal regalia during graduation ceremonies. Emphasize the importance of honoring and respecting Native students' cultural traditions and supporting their sense of identity. Avoid framing this legislation as divisive; instead, emphasize its role in creating a safe and welcoming school environment for all students.
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Policy Revision: Review and revise your district's graduation attire policy to explicitly state that Native students have the right to wear tribal regalia as part of their graduation attire. Ensure that the revised policy reflects the spirit of HB 2052 and upholds cultural sensitivity.
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Collaboration: Establish open lines of communication with Native students and their families to address any questions, concerns, or specific requests related to tribal regalia. Collaborate with cultural liaisons or Tribal Education Directors to gain insights and guidance on appropriate tribal regalia, ensuring cultural accuracy and respect.
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Accommodations and Support: Ensure that appropriate accommodations are provided to Native students who may need assistance with donning or wearing their tribal regalia during the graduation ceremony. Consider providing designated spaces or culturally responsive assistance to address any specific needs.
We understand that implementing these changes may require adjustments and additional coordination within your district. However, by ensuring the respectful inclusion of tribal regalia, we create an educational environment that promotes cultural pride, inclusivity, and student well-being.
If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to Assistant Superintendent, April Campbell at the Office of Indian Education, april.campbell@ode.oregon.gov. We are here to support you throughout this process.
Thank you for your commitment to honoring the cultural diversity of our students and for your dedication to creating an inclusive and culturally responsive educational experience for Oregon’s Native students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Charlene Williams
Director, Oregon Department of Education
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