The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian will host a variety of free public programs to celebrate American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month in November, including dance, theatrical performances, art demonstrations, films and more. The theme is “Living in Many Worlds,” which explores the dynamic intersection of family, history and cultural identity.
The museum installed a 12-foot bronze sculpture, Buffalo Dancer II (bronze edition 3; 2008) by Pueblo of Pojoaque artist George Rivera of northern New Mexico in the northeastern section of the museum’s landscape Wednesday, Oct. 28. On Native American Heritage Day, Friday, Nov. 27, traditional buffalo dancers from Pojoaque Pueblo will perform.
Check back for updates and additional programs throughout the month.
November 12
Curator’s Talk with Emil Her Many Horses
6 p.m.
Diker Pavilion
New York
NMAI curator Emil Her Many Horses (Oglala Lakota) discusses the exhibition A Song for the Horse Nation.
November 13
Symposium
IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas
Washington, D.C.
With presentations covering topics of policy, community, creative resistance, and lifeways, this multi-session symposium aims to bring visibility to African-Native American lives and initiate a healing dialogue on African-Native American experiences for people of all backgrounds. Dr. Lonnie Bunch, founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture—NMAI’s institutional partner for the exhibition—is among the symposium’s participants.
November 13
Blended Families: Tracing African-Native American Genealogy
1–2:30 p.m.
Room 4018, Fourth Level
Washington, D.C.
Angela Y. Walton-Raji facilitates a public genealogy workshop presented in conjunction with the exhibition IndiVisible.
November 14
Meet the Curators: IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas
10:30 a.m.–noon
Room 4018, Fourth level
Washington, D.C.
Join the IndiVisible curators for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at their work on this remarkable project and a lively, informative discussion of the challenges and rewards inherent in the richly complex subject the exhibition presents.
November 14—Exhibition Opening
A Song for the Horse Nation
New York
A Song for the Horse Nation presents the enduring relationship between Native people and the horse through vivid personal accounts and a spectacular array of objects, most from the museum's renowned collection. Starting with the return of the horse to the Americas in the 15th century, the exhibition traces how Native people adapted the horse into their cultural and spiritual lives and integrated it into their geographic expansion, warfare and defense.
A Song for the Horse Nation presents 95 works, including elaborate horse trappings, clothing, and photographs. The exhibition will close in March, 2011, and will continue at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., from June 2011 through January 2013. Afterward, the exhibition is expected to tour nationally through the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service program.
November 14
2 & 7:30 p.m.
Kevin Locke Native Dance Ensemble: “The Drum is the Thunder, The Flute is the Wind”
Washington, D.C.
A dramatic performance of traditional and contemporary American Indian dances with Kevin Locke (Lakota) and his eight-member ensemble that includes drumming, vocals, and flute music. Presented as part of the Native Expressions series, co-produced by the museum and the Smithsonian Associates, with a special Sunday matinee for family audiences. Performances are held in the Rasmuson Theater and are ticketed events. “The Drum is the Thunder, the Flute is the Wind” was made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts’ American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative, administered by the New England Foundation for the Arts.
November 14 & 15
Fall Family Weekend: From Deer to Dance
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Museum-wide
In this colorful celebration of culture, music, dance, art, and education visitors explore the Native process of turning the hides or skins of animals into the beautiful dresses or regalia worn during traditional ceremonies and powwows. Presented in partnership with the Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies.
November 15
Native Dance: The Hoop Of Life
The Kevin Locke Native Dance Ensemble
Noon
Potomac Atrium
Washington, D.C.
Recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts as a "Master Traditional Artist," Lakota artist Kevin Locke brings inspiration and awe to his performances. Locke's family program, The Hoop of Life, is appropriate for audiences of all ages. The impressive Hoop Dance and Locke's mastery of American Indian flute music are compelling "edutainment" for adults as well as students. This program is free and open to the public; tickets are not required.
November 19
INDIANS/DUTCHMEN LECTURE SERIES
Representations of North American Natives in the Dutch Golden Age
6 p.m.
Diker Pavilion
New York
In connection with the Hudson Quad-centennial, the Heye Center continues its lecture series on the Native encounters with Henry Hudson and the Dutch who followed him. Michiel van Groesen of the University of Amsterdam discusses the images, both visual and written, that influenced Dutch public opinion toward the indigenous peoples of their new domain.
November 19
Hands-on Workshop: Porcupine Quillwork with D. Joyce Kitson
5–8 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
D. Joyce Kitson (Hunkpapa Lakota/Hidatsa), a gifted traditional artist from the Standing Rock Sioux Nation, learned beadwork from her grandmother and hide tanning from an elder relative. Join her in a hands-on workshop in which she will teach basic porcupine quillwork techniques. Materials fee: $20 members/$25 non-members. To register, please call 212-514-3716.
November 21
Native Writers for Kids: Stephanie Duckworth-Elliott
2–3 p.m.
Resource Center
Washington, D.C.
Book reading and signing. Stephanie Duckworth-Elliott grew up on the island of Chappaquiddick in Massachusetts and is a member of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah). She has been an educator for more than fifteen years and is a certified teacher. Poneasequa: Goddess of the Waters (Naphtali Books, 2009) is her first book. Geared towards grades 4 through 7, her book is about a young Wampanoag girl who unexpectedly learns more about her culture and herself. A book signing will follow.
November 21
Art for a Horse Nation
1–4:30 p.m.
A Song for a Horse Nation Gallery & Rotunda
New York
Celebrated Native artists offer a weekend of demonstrations and lectures focused on the designs and traditions of their Native cultures featured in A Song for the Horse Nation. Demonstrations will include horse hair basket weaving, ledger art, beadwork, and quillwork. Featured in the program will be a tour of A Song for the Horse Nation by curator and bead-worker, Emil Her Many Horses (Oglala Lakota). Featured artists include quillwork artists, D. Joyce Kitson (Hunkpapa Lakota/Hidatsa); ledger artist, Thomas Haukaas (Lakota); and Juanita Growing Thunder (Assiniboine/Sioux).
November 26
Happy Thanksgiving!
Washington, D.C.
Pick up your Thanksgiving Day feast prepared in the museum’s Zagat-rated Mitsitam Cafe. (Dinners begin at $75; pre-order by November 20.)
November 26
Macy’s Thanksgiving-Day Parade Float
The float “The Spirit of Thanksgiving” was inspired by the sculpture Allies in War, Partners in Peace (Edward Hlavka, 2004), symbolizing Oneida Indian culture and history. A gift from the Oneida Nation of New York to commemorate the NMAI opening, the sculpture is on view on the museum’s Fourth Level.
November 27–29
Foodways of the Americas
Washington, D.C.
The unique foods of the Americas—from chilies to chocolate and many more—made their way across the hemisphere through complex trade routes. This program celebrates the rich contributions of these foods to the Americas and to the rest of the world in food demonstrations, hands-on activities, and much more. Presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian Latino Center and the NMAI’s Mitsitam Cafe.
November 28
National Potluck
Nationwide
The National Potluck, held on the same day as the Museum’s 20th anniversary, is a social fundraising event designed to help NMAI’s members, donors, friends and constituents celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the legislation that established the Museum, and help the Museum look forward to the future by raising $50,000 for our exhibitions, public programs, and other activities.
The purpose of the National Potluck is not only to raise funds for the museum, but to bring the NMAI community to your hometown. On November 28th, the museum will be webcasting portions of the Foodways of the Americas program so that hosts throughout the country can participate. We are also providing Potluck participants with free recipes and exclusive web videos to help create the NMAI atmosphere wherever they are.
To participate in the National Potluck, you can register as a potluck host and create your own fundraising page. Potluck hosts can choose to have their potluck in their home, community, or virtually. Once you have created your page, you will be able to email your family and friends inviting them to your potluck, and to make a donation to the museum.
To register as a host, visit http://go.si.edu/NMAIpotluck.
For more information about the National Potluck, please contact Inger de Montecinos via email at NMAImember@si.edu.
PAST EVENTS
September 5, 12, 19 & 26
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons from Latin America! Educational activities and family tours follow screenings. Cartoons are in Spanish and Portuguese with English subtitles.
September 12
From the Shelves of the Resource Center
Storybook Readings & Workshop
1 p.m.
Resource Center/Education Classroom
New York
Join a celebration of indigenous people from Latin America. Listen to The Thunder King, a story from Peru, written and illustrated by Amanda Loverseed and La Música de las Montañas by Marcela Recabarren and illustrated by Bernardita Ojeda, read in Spanish and translated into English. Then, enjoy traditional music performed by José Montaño (Aymara) and make a panpipe flute out of straws.
September 12
NATIVE SOUNDS DOWNTOWN
Celebrates FANDANGO at the NMAI!
2–5 p.m.
Diker Pavilion
New York
Enjoy a celebration of music, dance, and song from the six multi-talented members of Radio Jarocho. Enjoy a celebration of music, dance, and entertainment for the family. A blend of Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and Mexican indigenous cultures, the songs are a rich traditional style that include a lot of improvisational zapateado (footwork).
Presented in collaboration with Celebrate Mexico Now!
September 12 & 13
New York Heritage Weekend Tours
11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m.
New York
Join a discussion about the Lenape people of Manahatta (Manhattan before the Dutch). Visitors will tour the museum and learn about the cultures of the original inhabitants of the New York region. Demonstrations will include how wampum was produced, from shell to bead, as well as other cultural objects. The tour will also discuss the "sale" of Manhattan. Reservations are required; email nmai-tours@si.edu.
This program is part of New York Heritage weekend, a celebration of Hudson Fulton Champlain Quadricentennial activities. For more information, visit http://www.heritageweekend.org.
September 17
Workshop: Absolute Beginners Beadwork!
6–8 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
Cody Harjo (Seminole/Otoe) conducts this beading workshop geared specifically for beginners. Participants will create a beaded ornament. Registration is required; please call 212-514-3716. Materials Fee: $25 (non-members); $20 (members).
September 22
Spirit of a Native Place: Multimedia Landscape and Architecture Tours
Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of the American Indian launches multimedia tours of the museum’s landscape and architecture to inspire visitors and promote understanding of the connection to the land in Native life. These multimedia educational tours will be available to download on the museum’s website.
September 24
Painting Workshop
6–8 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
Aguilar Marrero (Taino/Cherokee) will lead a tour of the Andrea Carlson and Annie Pootoogook exhibitions while exploring the ways both artists represent their cultural stories and environments. Marrero will then lead a hands-on workshop in which participants will create paintings that depict their own cultural stories and backgrounds.
September 26
Big Shot 2009
Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of the American Indian partners with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to produce Big Shot 2009. RIT annually selects a building for a dramatic nighttime photo shoot; the building is illuminated with flashlights and the help of more than 1000 community members. This year, RIT celebrates its 25th anniversary, and has chosen the NMAI for its Big Shot 2009 location! Each participant receives a full-color 8 x 10-inch image of the museum. Past Big Shots have included the Royal Palace in Sweden, the George Eastman House in New York, and Pile Gate Castle in Croatia.
October 1
NMAI Workshop—First Encounters: Tainos Greet Columbus
6–8 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
Jorge Estevez (Taino) leads this workshop, which explores the first contact with Columbus and its impact on Native Americans. Estevez will provide historical and cultural perspectives on the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean region, past and present. Registration is required; please call 212-514-3716.
October 3
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
2009 has been named the International Year of Astronomy by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the universe. Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons featuring Native astronomy. Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
October 3
NMAI Teacher Workshop: Rethink Thanksgiving
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
Learn about the Wampanoag Harvest Celebration, now called “The First Thanksgiving,” while Wampanoag educators and cultural historians share their perspective of this event. Registration is required; please call 212-514-3716. Materials fee: $20 (Members); $25 (non-Members).
October 7
20th Anniversary Gala Reception
7 p.m.
Washington, D.C.
Celebrate with stars at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian’s 20th Anniversary Gala Reception at the Mall Museum. This event will commemorate four landmark anniversaries—the 20th anniversary of the legislation that created the NMAI, the 15th anniversary of the George Gustav Heye Center in New York City, the 10th anniversary of the Cultural Resources Center in Maryland, and the 5th anniversary of the Mall Museum in Washington, D.C.
During the evening, guests will enjoy Native foods, visiting the galleries, listening to musical performances, and interacting with cultural demonstrators throughout the museum. The program honors Senators Ben Nighthorse Campbell and Daniel Inouye, and presents the first NMAI “Prism Award.” CBS news correspondent Hattie Kauffman emcees the reception, with Buffy Sainte-Marie and Wes Studi among the special guests.
For more information or to order tickets, please contact Patricia Kramer at 202-633-6953 or email KramerP@si.edu.
October 9
Dinner and a Movie: La MISSION
7 p.m.
Washington, D.C.
The museum's Zagat-rated Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe will offer a full menu and Latin-inspired tapas from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
La MISSION starring Benjamin Bratt (2009, 117 min.)
Set in the colorful San Francisco district that bears its name, La MISSION is a story of redemption imbued with the curative power of Aztec tradition. Respected as the baddest Chicano on the block, Che (Benjamin Bratt) is a reformed inmate and recovering alcoholic who lives for his beloved son Jesse, his lifelong friends, and his passion for lowrider cars. His macho world is crushed when he discovers that Jesse has been living a secret life. A relationship with his neighbor Lena challenges Che to reconcile his violent past and the choices he's made. La MISSION is a haunting story of healing and transformation. Moderated discussion with filmmakers Peter and Benjamin Bratt follows the screening.
We regret that this event is now SOLD OUT. To cancel your reservation, please contact NMAI-FILMS@si.edu or 202-633-6695.
October 10
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
2009 has been named the International Year of Astronomy by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the universe. Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons featuring Native astronomy. Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
October 10
From the Shelves of the Resource Center
Storybook Readings & Workshop
1 p.m.
Resource Center/Education Classroom
New York
Celebrate El Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) by joining us to listen to La Niña de la Calavera (The Skull Girl) by Marcela Recabarren and illustrated by Raquel Echenique and A Gift for Abuelita: Celebrating the Day of the Dead by Nancy Luenn and illustrated by Robert Chapman. Both stories read in Spanish and English. After the stories, make paper flowers to take home.
October 15
IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas
4–6:30 p.m.
Washington, D.C.
Designed to accompany the traveling Smithsonian exhibit of the same name, IndiVisible is a workshop that explores the complicated and connected historical experiences of African Americans and Native Americans. For more information, please visit the Education Department's Teacher Programs webpage, available through the museum's website at www.americanindian.si.edu.
October 15
INDIAN/DUTCHMEN LECTURE SERIES
“We Durst Not Trust Them”: Hudson’s Indigenous Interactions
6 p.m.
Diker Pavilon
New York
In connection with the Hudson Quad-centennial, the Heye Center continues its lecture series on the Native encounters with Henry Hudson and the Dutch who followed him. James Ring Adams, NMAI Senior Historian, presents an overview of Hudson's encounters with North American Natives, both along the Mahicannatuck River (later the Hudson) and at first landfall in Maine.
October 15
NMAI Teacher Workshop: Rethink Thanksgiving
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Education Classroom
New York
Learn about the Wampanoag Harvest Celebration, now called “The First Thanksgiving,” while Wampanoag educators and cultural historians share their perspective of this event. Registration is required; please call 212-514-3716. Materials fee: $20 (Members); $25 (non-Members).
October 16—Exhibition Opening
Brian Jungen: Strange Comfort
Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of the American Indian opens a major exhibition of the works of Brian Jungen (b. 1970). Jungen, who lives and works in Vancouver, British Columbia, transforms the familiar and banal into exquisite objects that reference themes of globalization, pop culture, museums, and the commodification of Indian culture. Jungen is widely regarded as the foremost Native artist of his generation.
Jungen first came to prominence with Prototypes for New Understandings (1998–2004), for which he fashioned Nike footwear into masks that suggested Northwest Coast iconography. Later works have included a pod of whales made from plastic chairs, totem poles made from golf bags, and a massive basketball court made from 224 sewing tables. Jungen has exhibited at the Gwangju Biennial in South Korea, National Gallery of Canada, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, New Museum, Tate Modern, and other prestigious institutions in North America and Europe.
Strange Comfort features Jungen’s iconic works as well as major pieces never before seen in the United States. This is the first Jungen exhibition at an American Indian museum, and the first solo show of a living contemporary artist at the NMAI’s Mall Museum since its opening in 2004. The exhibition is organized by Associate Curator Paul Chaat Smith (Comanche), and closes August 8, 2010.
October 16
7–8:30 p.m.
Meet the Artist: Brian Jungen
Ring Auditorium, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Washington, D.C.
Artist Brian Jungen discusses his work, influences, future projects, and exhibition Strange Comfort with curator, art historian, and critic Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev. This program is co-sponsored by the NMAI and the Hirshhorn Museum; please note it is held at the Hirshhorn’s Ring Auditorium.
October 17
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
2009 has been named the International Year of Astronomy by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the universe. Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons featuring Native astronomy. Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
October 17
Traditional Dance Social with the Thunderbird Indian Dancers and Singers
7–10 p.m.
Diker Pavilion
New York
The Thunderbird Indian Dancers and Singers, directed by Louis Mofsie (Hopi/Winnebago), lead an evening of traditional social dancing. Heyna Second Sons are the featured drum group. Bring your family and enjoy the festivities.
October 22
INDIAN/DUTCHMEN LECTURE SERIES
Mahicans and Dutch along the Hudson
6 p.m.
Diker Pavilon
New York
In connection with the Hudson Quad-centennial, the Heye Center continues its lecture series on the Native encounters with Henry Hudson and the Dutch who followed him. Historian Shirley Dunn, author of four books on the Mahicans of the Hudson, tells the story of the Nation that gave Hudson his friendliest welcome and allied itself with the Dutch traders who followed.
October 23, 24 & 25
Chilean Crafts Trunk Show
10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Potomac Atrium
Washington, D.C.
Mapuche artists will exhibit and sell their work, including textiles, jewelry, and more. Presented by the Embassy of Chile and Smithsonian Enterprises.
October 24
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
2009 has been named the International Year of Astronomy by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the universe. Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons featuring Native astronomy. Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
October 24
Native American Cultural Perspective on Astronomy
10:30 & 11:30 a.m.; 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30 & 4:30 p.m.
Resource Center, Third Level
Washington, D.C.
Planetarium programs presented by Jim Rock (Lakota). In cooperation with the Minnesota Planetarium Society, and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Education Programs.
October 28
A Day with the Artists
2 p.m.
Resource Center, Third level
Washington, D.C.
Meet Jim Yellowhawk (Cheyenne River Sioux) and Anthony Callaway (Karuk)—two recipients of the National Museum of the American Indian Indigenous Contemporary Arts Program, a program that enables indigenous artists to research, document, network, and develop life skills to enhance artistic growth and strengthen career development. Spend an afternoon learning about their art forms, influences, and special projects.
October 31
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
2009 has been named the International Year of Astronomy by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the universe. Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons featuring Native astronomy. Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
October 31
Los Dias de los Muertos/Days of the Dead
Potomac Atrium
Washington, D.C.
November 1
Los Dias de los Muertos/Days of the Dead
11 a.m–4 p.m.
National Museum of American History
Washington, D.C.
On both October 31 & November 1, see an ofrenda (altar) display in the NMAI’s Potomac Atrium. On November 1, enjoy Los Dias de los Muertos, celebrated in communities throughout the U. S., Mexico, and many other parts of Latin America, with a variety of programs hosted at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Latino Center.
November 3
Educator's Open House
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Museum-wide
New York
This event provides educators the opportunity to learn about the rich experiences available at the NMAI. The day's activities include tours of exhibitions, the Haudenosaunee Discovery Room, and the Resource Center; there will also be hands-on activities. Educators who pre-register will receive a package of resources. To register, please call 212-514-3716.
November 3, 4 & 5
Gallery Program: A Song for the Horse Nation
10 a.m.–noon & 1–3 p.m.
A Song for a Horse Nation Gallery
New York
Joy Tone Pah Hote (Kiowa/Mayan) will demonstrate the art of making Powwow dresses, as well as her famous beadwork techniques, with museum visitors. In addition she will discuss the impact horses had on the Kiowa people of the Southern Plains.
November 5
INDIANS/DUTCHMEN LECTURE SERIES
What Did the Native Peoples Think of Hudson?
6 p.m.
Diker Pavilion
New York
In connection with the Hudson Quad-centennial, the Heye Center continues its lecture series on the Native encounters with Henry Hudson and the Dutch who followed him. Evan Haefeli of Columbia University re-examines the traditional interpretations of the Native reaction to Hudson and the Half Moon.
November 6, 7 & 8
Children's Native American Opera
El conejo y el coyote/The Rabbit and the Coyote by Victor Rasgado (Zapotec)
Friday, Nov. 6: 10:15 a.m. & noon
Saturday, Nov. 7: 2 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 8: 2 p.m.
Rasmuson Theater
This chamber opera for children, written in one act, is based on Zapotec stories and is inspired by the artwork of Mexican painter, Francisco Toledo (Zapotec). It is sung in a fantastical imaginary language and will be narrated in English for the Saturday performance and in Spanish for the Sunday performance. The opera blends many stories in which wily Rabbit outwits Coyote, and is a creative exploration of possibilities that is sure to please children of all ages!
Tickets are required for Friday's performances. For single tickets please call 202-633-3030; for groups of 10 or more, please call 202-357-1500, or email DTreservations@si.edu. No tickets are required for Saturday and Sunday; seats are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian's Discovery Theater for Children, the Smithsonian Latino Initiatives Pool, the Mexican Cultural Institute and Government of the State of Oaxaca, Mexico.
November 7
Past and Present-Day Warriors: American Indian Military Service
8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Learn about American Indian military participation during the Revolution, Civil War, and World War II, and explore the intersection of warrior culture in the lives of today's veterans. For more information, please visit the Education Department's Teacher Programs webpage.
November 7, 14, 21 & 28
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Washington, D.C.
Join us in the museum’s Mitsitam Cafe for family-friendly cartoons from North and South America! Educational activities and family tours follow screenings.
November 10—Exhibition Opening
IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas
Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of the American Indian, in partnership with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, opens the traveling exhibition IndiVisible, which focuses on the interactions between African American and Native American peoples, with particular focus on people of blended heritage. IndiVisible sheds light on the dynamics of race, community, culture, and creativity, and addresses the human desires of being and belonging. With compelling text and powerful graphics, the exhibition includes personally-narrated accounts of cultural integration and diffusion, as well as the struggle to define and preserve identity. Stories are set within the context of a larger society that for centuries has viewed people through the prism of race that was brought to the Western Hemisphere by European settlers.
November 11
Veterans Day: Stories of Native Warriors
Washington, D.C.
In honor of veterans, the NMAI screens short non-fiction films that focus on Native American veterans and their military service.
November 11
Veterans Day
Serving Their Country: American Indian Politics and Patriotism in the 20th Century
1–2 p.m.
Rasmuson Theater
Washington, D.C.
Book discussion and signing. Paul C. Rosier, author of Serving Their Country: American Indian Politics and Patriotism in the Twentieth Century (Harvard Press, 2009), is Associate Professor of History at Villanova University and received his Ph.D. in American History from the University of Rochester. Rosier also wrote Native American Issues and Rebirth of the Blackfeet Nation, 1912-54. Moderated by NMAI Historian, Mark Hirsch, Ph.D.
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