Keeping Tradition Alive: Burton’s Story of Culture, Family and Healing

Date: 11/26/25

For Burton, living on the reservation for the past 25 years has been more than a home—it’s been a commitment to preserving and passing on the traditions of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

As a tribal employee and devoted grandfather, Burton, pictured here on the right, has made it his mission to ensure his children and grandchildren grow up connected to their culture.

His daughter began dancing in powwows at the age of eight and now performs Fancy Dance at schools across the region. She’s learning the traditional language and proudly wears her regalia, sharing the beauty of Native traditions with others. Burton beams with pride as he watches her grow into a cultural ambassador.

At home, Burton is raising eight grandchildren, four of whom are eager to dance. They’re learning the language through the Boys and Girls Club and school programs, and Burton sees firsthand how cultural engagement positively impacts their behavior, learning and sense of identity.

The Sunflower Traditional Healing Benefit has become a vital support in Burton’s efforts. Regalia—essential for traditional dance—can cost upwards of $400 per outfit, especially when adorned with beadwork, moccasins, shawls, headbands and jewelry. Burton is currently teaching Brielle and Bella to Jingle Dance, while Bryce and Billy are learning Traditional Dance, which honors the hunting tradition. Each regalia is a labor of love, crafted by skilled community members who sew and bead with cultural intention.

“The program is a start,” Burton says. “It helps us get regalia made so the kids can dance and stay connected. Sometimes people let me do payments, but I try to knock it out all at once—one outfit at a time.”

Additional support from Royal Valley School has also helped, reimbursing families up to $200 for regalia costs. These combined efforts make it possible for Burton’s grandchildren to participate fully in cultural events and ceremonies.

But for Burton, the benefit goes beyond financial support. It’s about legacy.

“I want my kids and grandkids to learn the Pottawatomi culture and teach their kids. I don’t want them to forget where we came from. My mother, Unis Mary Blair, was full-blooded Indian, born and raised here. We’re from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. There’s so much going on in the world, but our traditions should never be forgotten.”

Dezaree Wenk, Sunflower case manager, had this to say about Burton, “This amazing grandfather is the heart of his family, consistently placing their needs above his own with unwavering love and dedication. His strength is deeply rooted in cultural tradition, and his connection to his Tribe and community is a powerful source of support. With humility and grace, he embraces every service offered to uplift his family, while remaining grounded in the values and wisdom passed down through generations. His leadership, resilience and commitment inspire all who know him.”

As tribal communities face the challenges of modern life and shrinking populations, Burton’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation. Through dance, language and tradition, he is planting seeds of identity and pride that will grow for generations.