Indian events ongoing

Lindsay Sainlar

In observance of Kentucky’s Heritage Month, the American Indian/First Nations Studies Club has invited speakers and performers to the Hill to educate on the traditions of American Indians.

Linda Pickle, modern languages and intercultural studies department head, said these performances are important to the student body because the United States has a complex and multicultural society.

“Sometimes we forget that the Native Americans were the first to inhabit the U.S.,” Pickle said.

Erik Gooding, modern languages and intercultural studies professor and faculty adviser for AIFNS, will be giving a lecture tonight on the powwow ritual, a ceremony in which American Indians celebrate music and dance together.

His multimedia presentation begins at 4 p.m. in the Rock House. ???

Gooding said that he hopes these admission-free seminars will increase student and faculty awareness of the 53 American Indian students on campus. ?

“They are an important aspect of our student body,” Gooding said. “Anytime you can experience another culture, I think you’re going to learn something from it.”

Also, Larry Yazzie, a native pride dancer, will perform at Gordon Wilson Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 18.

On Nov. 24 Kentucky archaeologist George Crothers will teach about the prehistoric life in Green River Valley and its importance to the region in Gordon Wilson at 4 p.m.

Gooding said that there are still residents who face everyday issues of living in a society that doesn’t understand their traditions. ?

“We’re trying to create an environment where American Indians feel comfortable. We’re [AIFNS] like a support group,” Gooding said.

Reach Lindsay Sainlar at [email protected].