Northwest Indian Veterans Association

By Janice Tarlecki

All veterans were invited to come and be part of the celebration, and many heroes were portrayed in the art-work, and publications displayed. The Portland/Vancouver chapter is a non-profit organization, made up of American Indian veterans and their families, who promote cultural awareness throughout their communities, year-round. They honor Indian elders living in the local community, serving the members of nearly all American Indian tribes represented throughout the Northwest.

At Christmas, more than 450 children receive a toy and bag of treats from Native Santa, along with holiday dinners and other needs. Yearly, social events and celebrations reach out to many children and families, in an effort to bring together the communities in traditional values.

The Indian Veterans represent WWI and II, Vietnam, and Korea, as soldiers of the United States, and are proud of their heritage, as seen in their continued service and “heroes” displays. The warrior tradition is one held in high regard, and passed on to the youth of the tribal community.