The Student Center for Social Justice and Identity, the Vanderbilt American Indian Science and Engineering Society and Native Americans in Tennessee Interacting at Vanderbilt have joined together to mark Native American Heritage Month at Vanderbilt.
The groups will host a broad array of programs and events aimed at promoting the important narratives and storytelling of Native American cultures and amplifying the voices of native peoples at Vanderbilt and in the extended community.
On Nov. 14, community members can participate in a dinner and visit to the Frist Art Museum for a talk by featured artist Rose B. Simpson. The program will begin with a dinner at the Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center at 5:20 p.m., followed by a bus ride to the Frist for Simpson’s talk. The first 20 people to RSVP will be able to join for dinner and transportation to the Frist. The Frist is free for college students on Thursday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. with a student ID.
A number of events have already taken place during the month, including a panel discussion on Nov. 8 featuring a geneticist, a fashion designer and a poet who talked about navigating career paths as Native Americans.
On Nov. 12, the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center hosted a Life Phase Series event celebrating Native American heritage. Pazetta B. Mallettee led a discussion on the cultures, contributions and little-known facts and current issues regarding Native Americans.
Also on Nov. 12, NATIVe hosted its third annual Art of Resistance cultural showcase in the Student Life Center Ballroom. The event included poetry, traditional song and dance and storytelling.
Observed nationally since 1990 during the month of November, Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, histories and contributions of native peoples.
To learn more about Native American Heritage Month at Vanderbilt and the calendar of programs and events scheduled, visit the Student Center for Social Justice and Identity website.