Southern Ute elder, veteran and spiritual leader, Dr. Jim Jefferson was honored with a bonnet from Southern Ute tribal member, Nathan Strong Elk, Wednesday, Dec. 7 in the main lobby of the Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum. Strong Elk sings an honor song for Dr. Jefferson as a way of honoring the bonnet he was gifted from Strong Elk. To support Jefferson in a humble way, as life is short, with healing, forgiveness and reconciliation. “We have to honor our elders while they are still here,” said Strong Elk.

Nathan Strong Elk gifted a bonnet to Dr. Jim Jefferson as a way of honoring Jefferson for all he has done, for the Tribe, the elders, veterans and the Native American community. The bonnet was passed to Strong Elk by a tribal member sun dancer and his uncle.