In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, Pennsylvania will: host Throughout the month of November, a variety of events will be held to celebrate the rich traditions and culture of Indigenous peoples.
This month is packed with festivals, lectures, and other campus events to recognize and uplift Indigenous voices and experiences.
Center Film Festival: October 30th (Monday) – November 5th (Thursday)
The Center Film Festival will present its “Indigenous Heritage Track” from Monday, Oct. 30 to Thursday, Nov. 5 at the State Theater and Roland Theater in Phillipsburg.
The festival will feature eight different films that focus on Native American and Indigenous stories and history.Find event tickets here.
Geovanni Siquihua Lecture: Friday, November 3rd
Kichwa Indigenous leader Giovanni Sikiwa will speak via Zoom on Friday, Nov. 3 at 3:30 p.m. in the Walker Building. This lecture is presented in conjunction with the Department of Geography’s “Coffee Hour” lecture series. Mr. Sikifa will discuss the current resistance to oil extraction in Ecuador and the negative effects of extraction on communities in the Amazon rainforest. Click here to register for the Zoom event here.
Chef Freddie J. Bitsoi Talk: Monday, November 6th
The Penn State Sustainability and Center Film Festival will welcome renowned Navajo chef Freddie J. Bitsoi on Monday, Nov. 6 at noon in Foster Auditorium. Bitsoie’s presentation at the Sustainability Showcase demonstrates the global impact of Native American cuisine’s diverse cultures and indigenous cooking practices.
Indigenous Meals on Penn State Campus: Tuesday, Nov. 7
Penn State Campus Dining will host an Indigenous-focused event in the East Food District on Tuesday, Nov. 7. The meals created by Chef Bitzoie showcase and celebrate the best of Native American cuisine.
Friendsgiving Event: Thursday, November 16th
The campus “Friends Giving” event will be held in the HUB’s Heritage Hall on Thursday, November 16th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. This free event will feature a performance by talented poetry artist Evita Colon, musical performances, dinner, and more.
Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month and see a complete list of events scheduled during the month. here.