HOT SPRINGS – What began five years ago as a support group for Native American youth at Hot Springs High School (HSHS) has grown into an all inclusive group reaching out to all who need a place to feel they belong: the Cultural Diversity Council (CDC).
The change to an all inclusive group was suggested by then-President Johnny Bossingham last year as he pointed out that part of the Native American culture is to embrace all.
“I wanted to make the school better for all different races,” said Johnny Bossingham, 17, “it’s unfair different races are treated differently, everyone should be treated equal.”
Since the change, the council has grown in number and in strength of conviction.
“This group will make a difference,” said council member Maliah McKinnie, 17, emphatically.
Yet even Maliah admits that at times it can be hard to make headway. “Most people don’t want to be friends with you because you are a different color or look different, but we, the council, make a difference, we help people see that different things in life can be good.”
Her sentiments were reiterated throughout the group with each student envisioning a future without prejudice, regardless of race, socioeconomic standing, or disabilities.
“This group makes me feel more a part of this school and I really want to show people how great it is to be proud of my ethnicity and teach others to do the same and teach others discrimination is not good,” said member Keely Mogen-Frankfort, embracing her combined Nigerian and Caucasian ancestry.
“The council is important because it helps the people who feel like they don’t have a place or are out of place to belong,” said Mya Marshall, 17, CDC President and Hispanic Lakota Sioux. “As President, I hope to help make some changes to our school. Racism is around and I just hope that with us standing together we will reduce it.”
“We are taking it one step at a time,” said Lakoda Keller, 16, “and over time we will get bigger and more impactful.”
However, the council is not just about battling racism through education; it’s also about making connections and opening lines of communication.
“Some of the kids that have come to the council, I noticed would fall into the ‘risk’ category,” said School Resource Officer Thomas McMillan, referring to his training as a police officer. “So it is imperative to be part of a group or council to help build relationships; to talk about the things that are shoved under the carpet or brushed aside, to build bridges.”
McMillan also feels that open communication with youth is a stepping stone to the community.
“It will cause a ripple effect into the community,” he said. “We need to recognize that we have a lot of racial problems not just within the school, but within the community, yet the first step is the kids, being there for the kids, encouraging and empowering them.”
“Be proud of who you are and step up to be there,” said Jeanie Dumire, at the opening of a recent CDC meeting. “Do not be ashamed of who you are, when you walk through the doors you have to become something different. The school is recognizing that and you are doing a great job stepping up.”
The youth in the CDC are passionate about making a difference and so happy to have found a place to belong with safety a common thread.
“A lot of kids feel alone and this gives them a place to not be alone,” said advisor Katie Burchfield. “A lot feel isolated and don’t realize there is a place be safe as who you are.”
Ashlainn Hannah, 17, said “I wanted to have a sense of security in the school and to be a part of something bigger.”
Matea Mumma, 16, added, “This group makes me feel wanted.”
Miracle Red Owl, 17, said the CDC meetings are, “Somewhere you can actually talk and be wanted.”
Taralynn Rudloff, 16, said, “It’s a safe place to be with people and to connect with different people and make more friends; anyone is welcome.”
Taysia Boehler, 16, added, “anyone can join and be safe.”
Adult advisors are on hand throughout the day and at meetings.
“I am here to listen and learn,” said advisor Blake Burchfield, “to see if I can’t serve and support people from different cultures in our town.”
“Throughout my life growing up, I saw the huge impact my mother (Jeanie Dumire) had on children and families as her career was in Indian Education,” said Jess Bossingham Ojibwe. “I am following in her footsteps and trying to make a positive impact like she did and does.”
“I have a heart for kids from different races especially in a town with little diversity,” said advisor Katie Burchfield. “Good change is slow and I have seen over the last couple of years the kids are learning to stand up for what is right.”
The CDC is happy to have the support of the school board and staff.
“We support groups that foster leadership skills and these guys have answered the call,” said Principal Kain Klinkhammer. “They have become visible in the school and advocate for their cause, making a difference with students of color, or low income, with all being recognized for their qualities and importance too. They build self esteem in these kids. I continue to expect them to grow.”
The CDC has spoken with the student council on issues ranging from bullying to racism. They are also active student mentors reporting on issues of bullying, helping academically struggling youth access tutors, and more.
“Anyone in the school knows they can go to any member of the Cultural Diversity Council for support and help,” said Dumire. “I am super proud of them, all of them.”
The CDC meets twice monthly on Wednesdays with a luncheon provided by the advisors.
Meetings are led by the president yet offer a relaxed agenda with any and all welcome to comment or bring to attention anything that may need to be addressed such as upcoming events, bully interdiction, education and more.
As the Cultural Diversity Council becomes more active, watch for them in community events such as parades, speaking engagements and more.
If a student wants to join contact Jeanie Dumire.
For more information on the council email Ms. Dumire at Jeanie.Dumire@k12.sd.us