Klahowya – Greetings from the Indigenous Peoples Caucus!

As you are probably aware, November is Native American Heritage Month here in the United States. A time we often use to connect and celebrate our various cultures and appreciate that we are still here. We have many native people here in Oregon who are from tribes both local, and far away – federally recognized or not. With Oregon’s history it can be especially important to reflect on how we came to be here, how we can interact with the systems in place, and how we can bring our vibrancy and cultures to the forefront of healing and moving forward together.

With those things in mind, you are invited to our 4th annual “Thanks-taking” talk, this year with a side of ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) basics. We’re celebrating as a community the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) being upheld by the supreme court, and we know some people may have questions. All members are welcome, you don’t have to be indigenous to participate. It will be happening during our usual Indigenous People’s Caucus meeting time (on the third Tuesday of the month) 11/21/23, at 6pm on Zoom. Feel free to invite others and register here.

I also encourage you to look into the history of Native American Heritage Month, think about your “Landcestors” – the people who historically lived where you live now, and best of all, look at some really good art. Here’s a great place to start, at least for the art portion.

The Land Carries Our Ancestors: Contemporary Art by Native Americans: Curated by artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, this exhibition includes some 50 living Native American artists. These artists visualize Indigenous knowledge of land/landbase/landscape through diverse mediums such as weaving, sculpture, beadwork, painting, performance, drawing, video, and more. www.nga.gov

Jean Jones
Any pronouns accepted and respected
Co-Chair of the SEIU 503 Indigenous Peoples Caucus