Native American celebration features traditions, guest speakers

Grand Valley State University's annual Native American Heritage Celebration will feature guest lecturers who will discuss issues such as Standing Rock and the preservation of Native American Historical Landmarks. 

The events, organized by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, are free and open to the public. They all take place in the Kirkhof Center on the Allendale Campus. 

Indigenous People Celebration: Q&A Panel and hoop dance performance; Monday, October 9, 6-8 p.m., room 2250

A Native American hoop dance will be performed followed by a student-led panel. 

Native American Student Association (NASA) Day of Service; Saturday, October 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., meet in room 1240 

NASA will engage in its annual Day of Service to help with preservation efforts of the Norton Mound National Historic Landmark. Norton Mounds is the only surviving Hopewellian burial mound group left. Space is limited. RSVP is required at www.gvsu.edu/oma.

Empower Yourself, Empower Your Communities: Gary Davis; Wednesday, November 8, 5-6 p.m., room 2250

Gary “Litefoot” Davis is a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and a successful entrepreneur. His inspirational messages are rooted in traditional values. 

Standing Rock: The Largest Gathering of American Indians in 100 Years Explored; Tuesday, November 14, 4-5 p.m., room 2266

Insights will be shared as to why Standing Rock became the largest gathering of American Indians in over 100 years and its lasting effects on a new generation of American Indians. Levi Rickert, founder of Native News, will lead the discussion.

Native American Heritage Celebration is sponsored by the Division of Inclusion and  Equity, Cultural Programming Council, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Native American Advisory Board, Native American Student Association (NASA), Office of Multicultural Affairs and WGVU Public Media.

Visit www.gvsu.edu/oma for more information. 

- written by student writer Marissa LaPorte