Native Heritage Month has just begun. Throughout November, the Native Student Program is hosting a series of events in collaboration with student organizations and campus departments. Native Heritage Month is a time to reflect, honor and celebrate the traditions, histories, contributions and cultures of Native people. You can explore the full schedule of events on the University Events Calendar and the Native Heritage Month webpage. Here are a few highlights to check out!
Ribbon Skirt Workshop
Have you ever been interested in sewing or making clothes? Join Deb Stalk (Mohawk), who has been sewing for over forty years, for a weekend-long Ribbon Skirt Workshop. Deb will be teaching students how to make a contemporary women’s ribbon skirt from start to finish on Saturday, Nov. 5 and Sunday, Nov. 6 from noon-5 p.m. Each workshop participant will receive a Ribbon Skirt Kit with all the necessary materials. Registration is required for both days and space is limited. Make sure you sign up to guarantee your spot!
A Taste of Indigeneity
Are you a food lover? I know I am! Led by Mariah Gladstone, A Taste of Indigeneity is a great way to learn about the history of Indigenous foods. Mariah is the host of IndigiKitchen, an online cooking show dedicated to re-indigenizing diets using digital media. Mariah will discuss the importance of rediscovering traditional foodways in emotional, physical and spiritual health. This is a great opportunity to learn about other food movements and how to incorporate these into our diets, so don’t miss this event on Nov. 7!
Full Moon Ceremony
Nov. 8 is the full moon. Grab a blanket and make your way over to the Quad for a Full Moon Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. led by the Barnes Center’s Diane Schenandoah ’11, Honwadiyenawa’sek (One who helps them). Here we can thank Grandmother Moon for continuing her duties. Expect to thank and pray for community members, families and loved ones, and sing a woman’s song to honor Grandmother Moon. Small hand drums and rattles are encouraged, and special guest Jimbo Talbot from DrumQuest will be in attendance.
Snipe Clan Botanicals Salve-Making Workshop
Have you ever struggled with skin irritation or eczema? If so, attend the Snipe Clan Botanicals Salve-Making Workshop on Nov. 17 from 2-4 p.m. At the workshop, you will learn how to make an all-purpose salve (an ointment used to help and heal) that’s used for burns, eczema or dry skin. Registration is required and space is limited, so be sure to sign up!
Closing Ceremony
As Native Heritage Month comes to a close, all are invited to give thanksgiving, join in a celebratory social dance and check out a showcase of Indigenous students’ artwork during the Closing Ceremony on Nov. 30 at the Skybarn.
Native Heritage Month is a great opportunity to get involved and learn something new. If you attend any of the month’s events, be sure to post your pictures on social media using the hashtag #CuseNHM. For more information regarding Native Heritage Month or to request accommodations, please email Bailey Tlachac or call 315.443.0258.
Written By Tessa Hodinger G’23, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications