Events at UNC Asheville for Native American History Month

Press release:

A lecture on early Native American history in Western North Carolina and a student panel, “My Culture, Not Your Mascot,” will highlight Native American History Month at UNC Asheville, which is celebrated throughout November.

Special events during Native American History Month include:

· Lunch-N-Learn: Early Native American History in Western North Carolina – Ellen Pearson, professor of history at UNC Asheville, will discuss the forced removal of the Cherokee Indians from their lands in the southern region of the United States to the western territories in the 1830s, and its impact on tribal nations in Western North Carolina. Wednesday, Nov. 5, noon-1 p.m. in Highsmith Union, Intercultural Center.

· Dakota-38 Film Screening – Dakota-38 documents one man’s journey to learn the history of the mass execution of 38 Dakota warriors during the US-Dakota War in 1862. Monday, Nov. 9, 6-7:30 p.m. in Highsmith Union, room 224.

· My Culture, Not Your Mascot – Students in the Native American Student Association will share their perspectives on the cultural implications and historical significance of athletic teams and schools utilizing Native American imagery and culture as mascots. Wednesday, Nov. 11, 6-7:30 p.m. in Highsmith Union, room 221.

· Rock Your Mocs: Indigenous Regalia and Representation – Trey Adcock, assistant professor of education and director of American Indian outreach at UNC Asheville, will discuss the representation of indigenous tribal dress in the media and the spiritual and cultural meanings behind many indigenous tribal regalia. He’ll also discuss the disparities to access of indigenous regalia. Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6-8 p.m. in Highsmith Union, room 224.

· Arming Sisters—Patty Stonefish of Arming Sisters, a non-profit focusing on raising awareness of violence against Native women, will present a workshop and lecture. Seating is limited; attendees are encouraged to arrive early. This event is cosponsored by the Native American Student Association, the student group SpeakUP, and UNC Asheville’s Cultural Events & Special Academic Programs. Thursday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m. in Highsmith Union, room 221.

Native American History Month is cosponsored by UNC Asheville’s Multicultural Student Programs and the Native American Student Association. These events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit msp.unca.edu.