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Michael Dykhorst

Honoring the Legacy of Miss Indian America: The Reunions, A Lasting Significance in My Life.

Updated: Dec 2, 2023

Being a part of the Miss Indian America Reunions has been a tremendous honor for me. I wasn’t born when All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageants took place, and my awareness of these events only emerged following my graduation from Sheridan High School in May 2011. Little did I know that my journey would take me on a remarkable path of discovery, re-connection, and ultimately, the creation of a lasting tribute to honor the unique collaboration between the townspeople of Sheridan and Native Americans during these historic events.


- The Beginnings -


In June 2011, I began working at THE Wyoming Room at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library. My initial task involved the organization of the extensive archival materials related to All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageants, which was a comprehensive effort spanning several months. Within this archival process, I encountered an original birth certificate belonging to Jerilyn LeBeau, a contestant who was crowned the twenty-seventh Miss Indian America in 1981. Unsure of what to do given the sensitive nature of the document, I consulted the guidance from my supervisor. After careful consideration, we determined it was only appropriate to return all original documents to the respective contestants. In light of this decision, I initiated a thorough research process and initiated contact with Jerilyn to discuss the handling of her birth certificate.



- The Birth of the Reunion -


During our conversation, she inquired and expressed an interest in the possibility of organizing a reunion. Although the concept of arranging a reunion diverged from the primary mission of THE Wyoming Room, we embraced the responsibility and took it head-on. Initially, we aimed to schedule the reunion for the first week of August 2012. However, these plans failed to materialize due to a lack of enthusiastic response and inadequate financial resources.



- A Serendipitous Encounter -


In the fall of 2012, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Vicky Kane, who held association with the Sheridan WYO Rodeo board and was in search of Native American-themed photographs for the upcoming rodeo poster. While assisting Vicky, an idea crystallized in my mind. I brought up the subject of the reunion request and proposed the idea of having the Miss Indian America titleholders serve as the Grand Marshals of the parade. Vicky presented this proposition to the rodeo board, and it was met with their approval.


- The Reunion Takes Shape -


Over the following months, a committee was established to oversee the planning of the reunion, and we made success in locating almost all living former Miss Indian America titleholders. The decision was made to convene the reunion during rodeo week on July 11-13, 2013, in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the inaugural pageant in 1953, where Arlene Wesley was crowned the first Miss Indian America.

A total of twelve former Miss Indian Americas participated, and a meet-and-greet event was organized for them. This event marked the first time many of these women had the opportunity to meet and interact with one another.

2013 Reunion with Miss Indian America's. Left to Right: Doreen Wonda Johnson, Melanie Tallmadge, Susan Arkeketa, Sharron Ahtone Harjo, Michelle Portwood, Willemette Youpee, Arlene Wesley, Vivian Arviso, Sarah Johnson, Claire Manning, and deana jo harragarra. Photographer unknown. Photo from Michael Dykhorst Collection

- Grand Celebrations -


Amidst enthusiastic applause and cheering, the Miss Indian Americas served in the role of Grand Marshals, gracefully transported in horse-drawn buggies, leading the procession down the iconic Main Street. Their presence was equally celebrated at the Friday night performance of the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, where they received a standing ovation from the appreciative audience.



- Honoring Tradition -


In homage to the heritage of the pageant, we continued to uphold time-honored rituals, including a Non-Denominational Church Service and a communal luncheon. The luncheon provided a heartwarming reunion for many host families who had graciously accommodated the honorees during their respective reigns. The passion and enthusiasm exhibited by these extraordinary women expressed a resounding desire to perpetuate these reunions.

Book written in honor of the 60th anniversary of the first Miss Indian America Pagent.

- The Continued Legacy -


As of now, there have been several more reunions. In 2015, we curated an art exhibition with the help of the Sage Art Gallery, featuring the works of four former Miss Indian Americas.

"TV commercial" I created for this event.


We had five former Miss Indian America's attend this year, along with one of the Miss Indian America's daughter who attended to honor her mother's memory. Additionally, a captivating fashion show was held at the historic Sheridan Inn, featuring a display of exquisite attire designed by Tamera Pease of BackCountry Runway.

Back Row: left to right - Annie Grace Strange Owl (Former Miss Indian America Contestant) and Jewell Medicine Horse Williams (Secretary to Neckyoke Jones). Front Row: left to right - Former Miss Indian Americas, Arlene Wesley, Annita Wolf Black (Daughter of Miss Indian America Brenda Bearchum) Willie Youpee, Sharron Ahtone, Sarah Johnson, and deana harragarra. Photographed by Michael Dykhorst from Michael Dykhorst Collection

The year 2016 saw a remarkable event when Bethany Yellowtail, a member of the Crow tribe and a distinguished fashion designer, graced us with her presence. She showcased her exquisite clothing line during a silent auction hosted at the Sheridan Inn, with the primary aim of raising funds for future initiatives. We also held a story telling event at the local senior center. At these events we also had the living members of Lucy Yellowmule's court.

Left to Right: Sarah Johnson, Michelle Portwood, Sharron Ahtone, Regina Spotted Horse-Stewart, Joy Old Crow-Matt (Regina and Joy were part of Lucy Yellowmule's Court when she was crowned Rodeo Queen of the Sheridan WYO Rodeo), Susan Arkeketa, and deana harragarra. Photographed by Michael Dykhorst from Michael Dykhorst Collection

- Journey to Toppenish -


In a poignant and heartfelt journey in June 2018, I accompanied four former Miss Indian Americas to Toppenish, Washington. Our collective mission was to bestow a trophy and shawl upon Arlene Wesley during the Yakama Tribes Treaty Days, an event that bore deep significance. Tragically, Arlene’s passing occurred September 8, 2018; three months after we honored her. Arlene's passing marked an emotional and somber moment in their shared history. About a year after this event, my committee involvement was discontinued, but the events continued, and I remained an active attendee.

2018 Honoring of Arlene Wesley taken in Toppenish, Washington. Left to right: Claire Manning, Michelle Portwood, Arlene Wesley, Sarah Johnson and deana jo harragarra. Photographed by Michael Dykhorst from Michael Dykhorst Collection


- Continuing the Tradition -


In 2021, a special gathering took place at The Wyo Theater, where six former Miss Indian Americas attended and shared their experiences.

All American Indian Days Honoring Project at the Wyo Theater in Sheridan, Wyoming. Left to right: Vivian Arviso, Sharron Athone Harjo, Michelle Portwood, the late Father Peter J. Powell, Sarah Johnson, Doreen Wonda Johnson, and deana jo harragarra. Photographed by Michael Dykhorst from Michael Dykhorst Collection

Following this event, the group underwent a transformation, splintering into two distinct organizations: The Honoring Project and the Miss Indian America Collective. The Honoring Project is a Wyoming nonprofit organization



- A Lasting Tribute -


In 2022, The Miss Indian America Collective raised money to plant 15 trees, with plans to add a bench and flowering plants near the elk and buffalo pasture, to pay tribute to the historic All American Indian Days, held from 1953-84, and the Miss Indian America pageant. This event occurred while I lived out of Wyoming, I was unable to attend. Also in 2022, I was approached by two former Miss Indian Americas who made up the Honoring Project. Their request pertained to my assistance in conducting research for the forthcoming statue dedicated to All American Indian Days, a task I readily embraced.


- The Dedication -


Upon my return to Sheridan in late 2022 after living out of Sheridan, I found myself better equipped with access to the pertinent records. The unfolding of April 2023, I met with Sarah Johnson and Vivian Arviso, engaging in detailed discussions surrounding the comprehensive research prerequisites. By the onset of July 2023, Sarah Johnson and I delved deep into the records in the process of discerning the materials necessitating scanning. The pinnacle of these endeavors manifested on October 9, 2023, with the grandeur of the dedication ceremony for the new All American Indian Days memorial which will honor the unique collaboration from 1953 to 1984 between the townspeople of Sheridan and Native Americans. The location is Rotary Park in Sheridan, strategically positioned across from the iconic Sheridan Inn.



- The Monument -


The dedication ceremony shined a spotlight on the focal point of the memorial, a towering 12-foot sculpture named “Mitakuye Oyasin,” meaning “We Are All Related.” This masterpiece is the creation of the renowned sculptor Jon DeCelles, a member of the Assiniboine Sioux and Gros Ventre tribes. Accompanying panels situated at the base of the sculpture will narrate the story of All American Indian Days. The dedication of "Mitakuye Oyasin," serves as a beacon of remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of these events lives on for generations to come.

Photos taken by Michael Dykhorst. As you can see the panels on the base show:

A Peace Pipe Ceremony, The crow and sash of Miss Indian America, A headdress, and a Tipi Villiage.



- A Timeless Testament -


As I stood at the dedication, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that the efforts of the many have culminated in a tribute that will forever honor the shared history and the profound impact of All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageants. This dedication is not just a monument; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of unity, diversity, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Within the memorial site, visitors will encounter 500 memorial paver stones and four commemorative benches, each etched with the names of individuals who actively participated in All American Indian Days. Educational signage provides the public insight into the historical significance and all elements pertaining to the events surrounding All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageant.



- Closing Thoughts -


In closing, I must reiterate the profound sense of privilege and blessing that has accompanied my journey alongside these extraordinary women. To have served them and learned from their experiences has been an indescribable honor. I remain forever grateful and consider myself profoundly fortunate to have partaken in this unique chapter of history, carrying these experiences as a cherished treasure until my journey's end.

The Miss Indian America Reunions have not only celebrated the vibrant Native American culture but have also allowed for healing, re-connection, and a rekindling of friendships among the remarkable women who once held the coveted title.

Sarah Johnson (left), Vivian Arviso (right) and myself (center) at the dedication of “Mitakuye Oyasin" on October 9, 2023 at Rotary Park. Photo courtesy of Sarah Johnson Luther

I personally hope that "Mitakuye Oyasin", the All American Indian Days memorial will stand as a timeless testament, enduring through the annals of history, granting future generations the opportunity to glean invaluable insights into these remarkable and historically significant events and that it may continue to remind us that we are all related, bound by our shared history, and connected by the values and traditions that these events have celebrated. Let this be a reminder that the legacy of Miss Indian America is a story of strength, culture, and the enduring power of community.

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