[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 100 (Thursday, July 7, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1260]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CHICKASAW WARRIOR STATUE DEDICATION

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAN BOREN

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 7, 2011

  Mr. BOREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an important milestone 
for a prestigious institution of higher learning in eastern Oklahoma. 
Bacone College, the oldest college or university in Oklahoma, recently 
dedicated the statue ``Chickasaw Warrior'' at its Founders' Day 
ceremony. This statue is a gift from its artist, Enoch Kelly Haney, and 
the Chickasaw Nation. Its dedication is a very special moment for this 
institution. Standing proudly at the center of campus, this tall, 
imposing statue depicts a battle-ready Native American man clenching 
arrows gazing into the distance.
  In the six months this statue has been on campus, it has become 
symbolic of the common spirit found everywhere at Bacone. Founded in 
1880 by Professor Almon C. Bacone in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Bacone College 
has been educating students of all backgrounds for the past 131 years. 
With more than two dozen Native American tribes represented in Bacone 
College's diverse student body, Bacone is known for preparing its 
students for success and preserving their cultural heritage. This 
statue aptly represents Bacone's long-standing relationship with the 
Native American community.
  This impressive statue was sculpted by Enoch Kelly Haney. A 1962 
graduate of Bacone College, Haney has become an internationally 
renowned artist and sculptor. His work spans four decades and his 
statue, The Guardian, stands proudly atop the Oklahoma State Capitol. 
In addition to his contributions to the field of art, Haney served in 
the Oklahoma legislature and in 2005 was elected Principal Chief of the 
Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. I would like to honor him for his time and 
effort in creating this generous gift to Bacone College and for his 
continuing service to the citizens of the state of Oklahoma.
  Finally, I want to commend the Chickasaw Nation for donating this 
impressive statue to the college. Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill 
Anoatubby described this occasion perfectly when he said this statue 
reflects the ``unconquerable'' nature of the Chickasaw people and their 
unwavering determination to persevere. Now this statue will stand as a 
testament to their spirit, and there is no doubt this extraordinary 
gift will serve as an icon for Bacone College's future.
  In these times of limited federal funding for higher education, it is 
important for the United States Congress to remember the local and 
regional universities that educate so many of our citizens, thereby 
empowering them to improve the future of their families and 
communities. Bacone College is a tremendous asset to eastern Oklahoma, 
and I recognize the Chickasaw Nation for their contribution to this 
important institution of higher learning.

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