About the KNAHC
 The Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission was established in 1996 (KRS 171.820-171.822) to recognize and promote Native American contributions and influence in Kentucky’s history and culture. The commission has 17 members (the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary or designee, plus 16 appointed by the Governor), eight of whom are of Native American heritage. The Commission also includes representatives from institutions of higher learning, archaeology, Native American arts and the public.
Our Vision
All Kentuckians will recognize, appreciate and understand the significant contributions Native Americans have made to Kentucky’s rich cultural heritage. Through education and increased awareness, the people of Kentucky will understand the histories, cultures and matters of concern to Native American peoples.
Our Goals
- To promote increased awareness of the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission within state agencies
- To promote the role and importance of Native American peoples to the history and development of the Commonwealth through teacher education, media relations, and public education
- To develop and promote an accurate depiction of Native Americans through media relations, research, and educational programs
To develop programs, events, and materials for and about Native American peoples
- To serve as a clearinghouse for information for and about Native Americans in Kentucky
- To develop and maintain partnerships between Native American peoples, agencies, and organizations in promoting the goals and objectives of the Commission
- To promote conservation and preservation of the cultures, ideals, and artifacts of Native Americans in Kentucky
- To promote existing and needed legislation to protect and promote the heritage of Native American peoples
Educational Initiatives
- Native American Heritage Month Poster
- Teaching About American Indians: Stereotypes and Contributions, a Resource Packet for Kentucky Teachers [PDF - 2,798KB]
- A Native Presence: A Companion Guide For Middle and Elementary School Teachers (Grades 4-8), for use with KET program, A Native Presence (co-funded by the Kentucky Archaeological Survey)
- Native Americans: Who Are They Today? A Discipline-Based Unit in Social Studies for Grades 4-5 (co-funded by the Kentucky Department of Education)
- Initiated planning for a Kentucky Native American Arts and Cultural Center
Sponsored Activities
- Living Archaeology Weekend at Red River Gorge, Gladie Cultural Environmental Center
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Commission Members |
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Preservation or Archaeological Community
Dwight R. Cropper – South Portsmouth
Dr. David Pollack – Lexington
Arts Community
Sarah Elizabeth Burkey - Bradfordsville
Citizens at Large
Helen Danser, Chair – Tyner
Michael C. Presnell, Vice Chair – Louisville
Ricardo Nazario Y Colon - Clearfield
Michael Dunn - Louisville
Dave Lee Fallis - Frankfort
Elbert Hagans - Hazard
Carla Hildebrand – Wickliffe
Cynthia L. Isbell - Louisville
Susan Mullins – Berea
Christopher A. Robinson - Richmond
Institutions of Higher Learning
Dr. John P. Bowes – Lexington
Dr. A. Gwynn Henderson - Lexington
Rep. Reginald Meeks – Louisville
Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet
Marcheta Sparrow
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Useful Links |
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