OKMULGEE, Okla. – The Okmulgee Indian Community busted out their kitchen tongs, tied on their aprons, and heated up pots with fry bread for their Indian Taco Sale on June 20. Proceeds from the sale will benefit community members children participating in this year’s Muscogee Nation Festival Jr. Olympics. The funds will cover t-shirts, snacks, and meal costs. This year’s OIC team has a total of 61 members.
The fundraiser featured a classic Indian taco menu. Toppings included beef, cheese, beans and optional veggies. Each plate included a desert option and a bottle of water. OIC Board Vice Chair Makayla Harjo (Mvskoke) was the chef at the helm who prepared food for the community’s fundraiser. Harjo works hard because she wants to see every child participate.
“We usually have around 60 to 70 kids a year for Jr. Olympics. It takes quite a bit of money.” Harjo said.
According to Harjo, the community’s goal for the fundraiser was to raise $500. This year is special for Harjo because it is the first time her daughter, Tessa, is competing at the Jr. Olympics. Athletic competitions will feature track, relays, short distances, a mile run, long jump, jump rope, softball, and a football throw. The events traditionally start bright and early at 6 a.m. on the Friday of Festival weekend.
Harjo is a natural around the kitchen. She frequently cooks large meals for various committee meetings and events held at her community center. Just like everyone else in her community, she has a particular way she likes her Indian taco.
“I like it kind of crunchy, but soft. Also not too thick.” Harjo said. “I prefer it with meat, beans, lettuce and cheese.”
Although morning temperatures are typically sweltering during Festival, Harjo says it’s rewarding to help her community’s children cross the finish line.
“It (Jr. Olympics) gets hot but it’s so worth watching them run and smile and joke around and make friends.” Harjo said.
For those who would still like to donate to the OIC to help with expenses for this year’s tournament, donations can be made through Cash App, $makaylaharjo.
