Posted on Updated on

URI commemorates Native American Heritage Month with events the rest of November

KINGSTON, R.I. – Nov. 15, 2021 – The University of Rhode Island and the Native American Student Organization is hosting several events this month to celebrate the rich history and contributions of Native Americans in our communities as part of Native American Heritage Month.

“We have much to celebrate and much to learn from these integral members of our community,” said URI President Marc B. Parlange. “I hope you will join me and NASO throughout the month for Indigenous games, music, vendors, and other important events, including a performance of traditional dance in which participants can learn simple footwork.”

November’s events include:

Tuesday, Nov. 16: Join the URI community on the Quadrangle from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to enjoy music from Indigenous artists, games such as Ring and Pin, Hubbub and Stick ball (lacrosse), and information booths on Indigenous history and social justice issues Native Americans face today.

Also for the next several weeks, Indigenous vendors will set up during the day in front of the Memorial Union and Multicultural Student Services Center, selling beadwork, art, jewelry and accessories all handmade by Indigenous people.

Tuesday night, Nov. 16: The Multicultural Student Services Center, in collaboration with the URI Women’s Center, will present a panel discussion, “The Silent Genocide: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.” The event will be held in the Multicultural Center’s Hardge Forum starting at 5 p.m. Catering will be provided by Sly Fox Den, an Indigenous run and owned restaurant with Northeastern Indigenous cuisine.

Tuesday, Nov. 23: Come to the Quadrangle for more music, games and the chance to learn about Indigenous history from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 30: A performance showcasing traditional Indigenous dance will be held at 6 p.m. in the Ram’s Den, in the Memorial Union. Along with performances of major categories of traditional dance, there will be drum and flute music and social dances for everyone to take part.

If you’re looking for more Indigenous history, check out the Tomaquag Museum’s exhibit, “Away from Home: Native American Boarding School Stories,” in the former University Club at 95 Upper College Road, on the Kingston Campus. The traveling exhibit is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and runs through Jan. 7.