Native American Heritage Month
Post by Taylor Springs
November is a VERY busy month to say the least. November has become a time to reflect on how thankful we should be for the opportunities we are given as college students (Thanksgiving….). November has become the “study with a passion” month, because NC State students take their academic careers VERY seriously. Students begin to count the days until their final exams because they are just SO excited to take them and only wish that Thanksgiving Break was shorter-said no student ever. But despite the excessive studying and pursuits of 4.0s, students are given the opportunity to experience culture in a fun and relaxing way. November brings diversity to the students and faculty here at NC State University. November is all about Native American Heritage Month!
One of the promotional flyers!
Here at NC State, culture and diversity is very important to the students, faculty, and the community. During the month of November, the Department of Multicultural Student Affairs and the Native American Student Association host multiple events in order to teach different aspects of the Native American culture. Throughout the month, the events are held in a casual, entertaining, and very educational manner. At the end of each event, an individual will not only be educated on that certain topic but will also feel more relaxed (due to the uplifting and fun activities).
Brooke Spaulding, a dancer from the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe, who participates at the Native American events at NC State.
During Native American Heritage Month, students and faculty are able to participate in various workshops, discussions, and celebrations. This past month students were given the opportunity to watch the “Spirit of the Dawn”—where the audience sees the dramatic changes in Indian education. Many students were able to attend a Cheraw language workshop—they were able to learn words and phrases of an Eastern Siouan language—, a dream catcher workshop—they were given a chance to learn the importance of a dream catcher and how to make one—-, and students were able to attend a drum workshop—they were able to learn the history of the Native Drum and its importance.
An Advertisement for The Dream Catcher Workshop
In my opinion, the two biggest events for November are the Native American Culture Night and the Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration. The Native American Culture Night is sponsored by the Native American Student Association and the Department of Multicultural Student Affairs. This is a night of storytelling, drumming, singing, dancing, and traditional Native American Thanksgiving dishes and desserts! It is a night of community, fun, laughter, and education. The Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration is sponsored by the North Carolina Museum of History. It is a day to honor the American Indian Heritage Month and educate the community of the vibrant culture. There are youth workshops, vendors, dancing, exhibits, food, etc that take place throughout the celebration day.
18th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration at the North Carolina Museum of History
November has become a time to honor the Native American culture, educate people of its heritage, bring the community together, and be thankful for what we have and who we have in our lives. I hope to see you next November supporting these educational events!
