Traditional Native American Pow Wow Celebration
Photo by Bill Jones, Freelance Photographer
Did you know there are 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States? Native American heritage is all around, and their influence runs deep. For instance, Native American crop cultivation led to 60 percent of the food supply globally today. And English words, such as chocolate and guacamole (to name a few), originated from the Native American language. These contributions are a few of many examples that led to the annual celebration of Native American Heritage. Each year, November is observed nationally as Native American Heritage Awareness month. To kick off the occasion, we’ve picked out a handful of events available for the public to learn, appreciate, and honor.
Local Recognition:
Stories of our Neighbors
What: “Our Home: Native Minnesota” Exhibit
When: Now
Where: Minnesota Historical Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd W, Saint Paul, MN 55102
Dive deep into the historical stories of Minnesota Native communities. Feel Native Americans’ lasting impact on the land, and learn cultural music, art, and games.
Lela Pierce in "She who lives on the road to war." Photo by Valerie Oliveiro
Awaken Expression
What: Rosy Simas Danse: She Who Lives on the Road to War
When: Now – December 15, 2022
Where: All My Relations Gallery, 1414 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Visit an immersive experience of dance performance inspired by Jigonhsasee, an Iroquoian woman of the Haudenosaunee Nation who helped reconcile the Great Peacemaker and Hiawatha, forming the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. The installation focuses on the need for restructuring and peace in today’s world.
Artistic Partnership
What: Hamm Clinic Partnership,
When: November 4, 5 – 6 p.m.
Where: Hamm Clinic, 10 River Park Plaza Suite 710, Saint Paul, MN 55107
Ponder the art displayed in the lobby of Hamm Clinic’s new building, located on what was Indigenous Peoples’ land. Meet with artist and Fond du Lac heir Moira Villiard, who designed artwork that speaks to Indigenous mental health awareness, treatments, and healing.
Broad Awareness:
National Museum of the American Indian
Virtual Cultural Journey
What: Smithsonian American Indian Museum / Native American Heritage Month Livestream Tour
When: November 1, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Online
Discover the iconic National Museum of the American Indian from afar. This Livestream tour invites viewers inside the Native American-designed architecture and allows for the absorption of unique exhibits, live Indigenous cultural presentations, and more.
Films Forming Knowledge
What: 2022 Native Cinema Showcase, presented by American Indian Museum
When: November 18 – 25
Where: Online
Enjoy an annual tradition that brings together 35 films showcasing 30 Native nations and ten Indigenous languages. This viewing experience includes features for all ages, shining a light on Native history.
A Poetic Immersion
What: Living Nations, Living Words, presented by Library of Congress
When: Now
Where: Online
Escape in poetic renderings brought to listeners from the 23rd Poet Laureate of the United States and the first Native Poet, Joy Harjo. Her collection, Living Nations, Livings Worlds, includes audio of 27 Native American poets. The discourse reaches generations, expressing the theme of place and displacement.
Frybread
If the above events are out of reach, consider alternative pastimes. Plant an Indigenous plant, learn an authentic Native American recipe like Frybread, or read a story by a Native American author such as “Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians but Were Afraid to Ask” by Anton Treuer.
The makings of Native American Heritage Awareness month have been in the works since 1915. What began as a conversation between a Seneca Indian, Dr. Arthur C. Parker, and the Boy Scouts of America to start a “First Americans Day” has now become a month-long national honoring. MLCV is proud to celebrate.
This article was written by Hannah Torkelson, MLCV’s Brand Communication Specialist. Hannah is a storyteller and is responsible for capturing great moments within MLCV’s portfolio.