October 29, 2009

Native American center at Purdue to celebrate heritage month

All the events are free and open to the public.

The kickoff event, featuring Native American drums and a cultural presentation by Native American elders and artists, is from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday (Nov. 3) in Stewart Center, Room 314.

"We are celebrating by hosting events that showcase Native American cultures," said center director Felica Ahasteen-Bryant. "We hope the events will raise awareness about the diverse tribal nations that exist around the country. It's also a great opportunity for the university and local communities to meet local Native American students, faculty, artists, scholars and elders."

On Nov. 11 the center will screen the "Tecumseh's Vision" episode of the PBS documentary We Shall Remain that establishes Native American history as an essential part of U.S. history. The screening will take place from 1-3:30 p.m. in Pfendler Hall, Room 241. Dawn Marsh, assistant professor of history at Purdue, will moderate a discussion following the screening.

On Nov. 17 Native American artist Kelly Church will share her knowledge of black ash basket weaving from 3-4 p.m. in Stewart Center, Room 214CD. A member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa, Church is artist in residence at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in Indianapolis. Her presentation is being co-sponsored by Purdue's entomology department.

Ahasteen-Bryant, who is from the Dine' Nation and was born and raised on a Navajo reservation in New Mexico, said she often shares her personal stories that depict the resilience of the Navajo culture and language.

"This month we are very fortunate to have other Native Americans willing to share their stories from their own tribal nations," she said.

Purdue has approximately 200 Native American students, most of whom are enrolled in undergraduate programs, Ahasteen-Bryant said.

Established in spring 2007 through student and campus community advocacy, the Native American Educational and Cultural Center fosters a culturally diverse and intellectually inclusive campus environment and serves as a "second home" for Native American students on campus. 

Writer: Soumitro Sen, 765-496-9711, ssen@purdue.edu

Source: Felica Ahasteen-Bryant, 765-494-4539, fahastee@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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