The 15th annual AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors event honored 47 Native American elders from 23 Oklahoma tribal nations, including Watonga’s own Larry Roman Nose, for their achievements, community service and impact. Since 2009, AARP Oklahoma has honored nearly 700 Native American elders from Oklahoma's 39 tribal nations.
The ceremony was held November 1 in Oklahoma City at the First Americans Museum. The floor-to-ceiling windows in The Hall of The People overlooked the First Americans Museum Mound. The FAM Mound, a 21st-century mound that pays tribute to the Oklahoma tribes who descended from Moundbuilder cultures, served as a poignant backdrop for the ceremony.
AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl welcomed the 300 attendees and said the Native American Elder Honors was established to memorialize the work and contributions of elders who inspire future generations. Voskuhl thanked the honorees for answering the call to contribute and lift communities.
'Whether they are well known or exhibit quiet devotion to family and community, all our honorees represent the love of family, dedication to culture and respect for all,' Voskuhl said. 'We are overwhelmed and inspired by the work you do.'
Larry Roman Nose is recognized as the peace chief of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. He is known to travel near and far to minister to those in need, offering prayers in both Cheyenne and English and to share encouraging words. He’s also well-known for leading traditional ceremonial sweat lodges for the sick and for providing comfort to families and communities how are mourning the loss of a loved one. Roman Nose is a popular speaker, storyteller and singer as well as a United States Marin Corps veteran and gourd dancer.
Roman Nose was also featured in the PBS Craft in America series ‘Meet the Cheyenne and Arapaho Peace Chiefs’ Roman Nose lives in Watonga but is well respected throughout the Cheyenne and Arapaho communities.
He has established a good rapport with many elders, children, adults and even appointed government officials. He is recognized by the First Native American Museum where his digital photo and biography are displayed. However, with the various accolades, Roman Nose is known as a humble spiritual man who has never wanted the spotlight, Quinton Roman Nose was previously recognized by the AARP for similar commitment to the C&A community.
The AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors celebrates Native American elders who positively impacted their community, family, tribal nation and nation. This honor celebrates a lifetime of service by distinguished Native American elders who exhibit a love of family, dedication to culture, and respect for all people.
The program included a performance by the Oklahoma Fancy Dancers, an in-memoriam tribute, and the presentation of 47 medallions to the 2023 AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors recipients.
The 15th annual AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honor recipients included educators, veterans, artists, tribal leaders, culture preservationists and everyday heroes.
'These honored elders embody AARP's mission and, through example, motivate others to follow suit and selflessly serve their communities,' Voskuhl said.' Individually, their accomplishments are remarkable. In totality, their impact is breathtaking throughout Indian Country and our nation.'
Nominations for the 2024 AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors will open in January 2024.