CSUEB celebrates Indigenous People's Month with programs on heritage, social justice

• November 19, 2013 5:36am

November is Indigenous People’s month, and the Diversity Center at Cal State East Bay is hosting several programs to celebrate native cultures and to further examine social justice issues concerning indigenous peoples of North America.  Programs are free to all CSUEB students, alumni, staff and faculty.  

All events will take place in the Diversity Center (located in the New Union, adjacent to Subway).  See below for more detailed descriptions for this week’s Diversity Center programs.

Tuesday – Nov. 19, 12-2PM

Hupa Culture: Stories, Food, and Dance
Learn about native culture, listen to stories and songs significant to the Hupa Tribe, taste bbq’d salmon and acorn soup, and watch a demonstration of the Women’s Ceremony Dance.

Wednesday – Nov. 20, 12-1PM

What's The Difference - Cleveland Indians vs. Indians
Are the Cleveland Indians, Washington Redskins and other sports teams honoring American Indians or is this a racist minstrel show that exploits their culture and identity?

Film Screening: The Canary Effect
Nov. 201, 4PM

The Canary Effect follows the terrifying and horrific abuses instilled upon the Indigenous people of North America, and details the genocidal practices of the US government and its continuing affects on present day Indian country.

Thursday – Nov. 21, 1-2PM
Between the Lines Speaker Series: Dr. Melissa Nelson 
“Original Instructions: Indigenous Teachings for a Sustainable Future"
Dr. Melissa K. Nelson is an associate professor of American Indian Studies at San Francisco State University and president of The Cultural Conservancy.

***What's The Difference: Trayvon Martin and Rendisha McBride
Nov. 21, 11:30-12:30PM

Many were upset with the George Zimmerman-Trayvon Martin verdict, but few have even heard about Renisha McBride.  Why is this?  On November 2, 2013 McBride, a young black female, got into a car accident.  In need of help, McBride knocked on the door of a home in a predominately white neighborhood.  She was shot dead.  By accident we’re told.  The homeowner - white - has yet to be charged for killing McBride - black.  Is it that simple or is there more to this story?  Join us Thursday, November 21at 11:30am in the Diversity Center to share your thoughts, questions, and comments about this tragedy.   

Next Week – Nov. 26, 12-1PM
Real Talk - ThanksGiving or ThanksGrabbing?
How do we reconcile the genocide and suffering of Native Americans and the theft of their land with a national holiday that celebrates a harvest feast between Natives and Pilgrims.

*** Program is not included as a part of Indigenous People’s Month

--Jonathan Stoll