One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration to showcase Native American games

Aug. 30 (UPI) -- The President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition will celebrate America's rich cultural heritage through traditional Native American games such as lacrosse on the National Mall next month.

The Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement the Sept. 7 event will showcase how lacrosse and other traditional Native American games can promote physical activity.

"Our goal is to highlight the lasting importance of native traditions, focusing on modern Indigenous perspectives while sharing culture, identity, and inclusion for all through sport and health," said President's Council and Osage Nation member Ben Jacobs, in a statement. "In supporting the roots of lacrosse and traditional stick games, this event connects local D.C. youth lacrosse groups with national organizations to celebrate inclusivity and diversity."

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, American Indian and Alaska Native youth face serious disparities in mental and physical health areas such as obesity, substance abuse, type 2 diabetes and suicide.

"Interventions rooted in indigenous traditions have been shown to improve health outcomes and mental health-related morbidities in AI/AN communities," HHS said in a statement. "Through the healing power of heritage, the event aims to support tribal practices and cultural traditions, which build resiliency and strengthen community and cultural connections for improved physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being within AI/AN communities, particularly among AI/AN youth."

According to HHS, the free Sept. 7 event will welcome participants to explore and experience "the core principles of lacrosse and the healing power of culture: respect, strength, endurance, teamwork, and inclusivity."

It's a celebration of America's First Games.

"The One Lacrosse Gathering Celebration exemplifies the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition and the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to uplifting diverse cultures through sport and tradition" said a statement from Rayhaan Merani, director of the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. "By honoring America's first games, we preserve Native heritage while advancing the holistic health and well-being central to our mission."

The event will feature federal leaders, Tribal communities, the Howard Women's Lacrosse Team, college athletes and non-profit stakeholders.

It's a one-day event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Lacrosse will be included in the Olympics 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. It's among six new sports to be included.

Cricket, squash, baseball, softball and flag football also will be included.