LEWISTON, Idaho – “Reflections of Culture & Environment” is the theme for the 39th annual Native American Awareness Week, which will take place in mid-March on the Lewis-Clark State College campus.
This year’s theme aims to examine how tribal culture connects with and is affected by environmental forces. The events are free and open to all.
Tuesday, March 10
Area fourth graders are invited to participate in the Mini-Powwow, set for 10-11:15 a.m. at the P1FCU Activity Center.
Tuesday, March 17
Nez Perce Tribal member Roberta “Robbie” Tawlikitsanmay’ (Woman of the Forest) Paul will give a talk titled “Listening to the Birds – A Nez Perce Woman’s Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing” from 10:30-11:45 a.m. on the second floor of the Library.
Also on the second floor of the Library, Nez Perce Tribe Education Director Joyce McFarland will hold a “Nimiipuu 101” workshop from 12-1:15 p.m.
Attendees are invited to learn about the Nez Perce Tribe Environmental Restoration & Waste Management Program from 1:30-2:45 p.m. on the second floor of the Library. The program is involved in the Hanford Nuclear Site clean-up effort, which is located within the Tribe's Usual and Accustomed Areas in Washington’s mid-Columbia River region.
Wednesday, March 18
LC State Nez Perce language students will provide short lessons, games, and handouts outside Reid Centennial Hall from 3-4:15 p.m., and an evening of storytelling will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Silverthorne Theatre.
Thursday, March 19
The Native American Awareness Week Friendship Dinner will feature student acknowledgements and the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award from 6-7:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Library.
Friday, March 20
The Simíinekem Wewéex̣p Páax̣am powwow and scholarship raffle will be held from 7-11:30 p.m. in the Lapwai High School gym, located at 500 Willow Ave. in Lapwai.
Native American Awareness Week is presented by the LC State Native American Club. More details about the events are available on the Native American Awareness Week webpage.