The Star Theater in Oceanside CA was sacred ground August 10th. A gathering of tribes representing the numerous traditional Indian communities surrounding Oceanside came together to honor Saginaw Grant. It was a resonating, and powerful event. The theater was bathed in singing, dancing and traditional drumming, creating a multi-cultural spiritual happening

This historical, paradime shifting event hosted by the Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation paid homage to a cultural icon and hero.

Saginaw Grant was born at the Indian Hospital in Pawnee, Oklahoma, the son of Austin and Sarah (née Murray) Grant. He is a member of the Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma His mother’s ancestry was from the Iowa and Otoe-Missouria tribes of Oklahoma.

As a Native American actor, traditional dancer and motivational speaker, Saginaw Grant brought honor to the Sac-n-Fox, Iowa, and Otoe-Missouria Nations where he is a respected member.

Grant has appeared in numerous films and television shows. He played Chief Big Bear in the 2013 film the Lone Ranger, starring Johnny Deep. The same year, he was featured in Breaking Bad. His is aso known for acting and representing his nation in other TV shows: The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, (1993) Baywatch, (1997). My name is Earl 2015), Saving Grace (2007).

The Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation’s mission is to bring quality artistic, visual and performance arts to Oceanside and the surround communities.

The festival organizers stated that they were particularly honored to welcome Saginaw Grant with a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution in the film and television industry. We are thrilled to welcome Saginaw Grant in association with San Diego known for profound Native American history.

The legacy of the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseno Mission Indian is significant. The full regalia performance of the particiapnts prior to and during the on stage ceremony was good medicine for the Indigenous world.