Native American Santa Pays Visit To First Americans Museum

Tyree Williams is about to celebrate his first Christmas. His mom, Taren Williams says he's not only excited for the holidays but to see a Santa that looks like him.

“At a young age I wanted him to see something that was you know in his culture and people like him and people that he's going to see in the future,” Williams said.

Tyree's mom said today her son got to meet a Native Santa, an experience something she never had growing up.

Many families say you're never too old to get excited to see Santa. They said this isn't just for their children, but it's nice to see there's an effort being made to show Santa comes in different colors.

“I've seen Santa a lot, but it's like a reality to really see a Native American one. I always told my kids that he's Native American, but they always see the different nationalities, so it's heartwarming to me to be able to see it myself,” Dorothy Walema said.

Santa says the best part about the holidays isn't just about getting free milk and cookies, but to see kids light up when they see him.

“There's many costumes that Santa wears. You know my coat looks many different ways when I go to the different areas Germany, England, France, now here in native America. I wore one that young native children can see and relate to,” Santa said.

Santa said it's nice having a space to visit this year where folks can learn more about native culture and he can connect more with Native Children.

“To hold onto a culture and to have that identity is important with everyone,” Santa said.