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Kalamazoo Times

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Western Michigan University hosts events for Native American Heritage Month

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Dr. Edward Montgomery President at Western Michigan University | Official website

Dr. Edward Montgomery President at Western Michigan University | Official website

Western Michigan University is hosting a series of events to commemorate Native American Heritage Month, celebrated nationally in November. The month-long observance aims to honor the cultural heritage, resilience, and contributions of Native peoples to the United States.

Skyler Wolverton, a graduate student and leader in Western's Native American Student Organization (NASO), emphasizes the importance of this month. "This month not only serves as an acknowledgment but a chance to reeducate and improve people's knowledge on what has really happened," Wolverton states. "It is about empowerment and change."

The events kick off with a presentation by Dr. Evan Larson from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville on November 7. His talk, titled "Reciprocity through the Flames," will explore research that combines tree-ring-based fire history with Indigenous knowledge regarding Great Lakes forests.

On November 8, Larson will participate in an environmental and ecological gathering at Western Michigan University. This event includes a luncheon and discussion moderated by Shabanaa Bush, NASO president, and Dr. Dee Sherwood, NASO advisor. Bush hopes the discussion will inspire students by showcasing tribal entities' efforts in environmental conservation.

Sherwood highlights the significance of building relationships based on trust and reciprocity with Native nations. She notes that ongoing consultations will guide the University's efforts toward environmental justice and sustainability.

A collaboration between NASO and Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine is also planned for November 9. The discussion will focus on the role of sacred medicines—sage, sweetgrass, cedar, and tobacco—in healing processes for Native patients.

Indigenous hip-hop artist Frank Waln will host an interactive musical presentation on November 13 as part of his residency at Western's Irving S. Gilmore School of Music. A reception will precede his performance.

The schedule also includes a traditional hand-drum-making workshop led by Fred Jacko on November 20 at the Office for Sustainability.

For further details about these events or year-round opportunities to engage with Native culture at WMU, follow NASO on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

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