IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2009

CONTACT: K.E. Schwab
724.738.2199

karl.schwab@sru.edu

Native American history, traditions, culture 

in SRU spotlight at annual celebration

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – The history, traditions and culture, including food, of Native Americans will be spotlighted Nov. 12 when Slippery Rock University hosts its annual Native American Celebration Day.

              The event is in conjunction with the Pittsburgh-based Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center. The non-profit center was conceived in 1969 by Pittsburgh residents who felt the need to maintain a sense of “Indian-ness,” recapture their roots and become more conscious of their rights as Native Americans. The council operates from offices in Dorseyville, Indiana Township. 

       Dancers, singers and storytellers from the center will join in the day’s celebration.

              This year’s program, chaired by Michelle McCollin, assistant professor of special education, opens at 9:30 a.m. in the University Union.

              “A master storyteller will speak at 10 a.m., and we have found that children from area schools are enthralled with this portion of the daylong program,” McCollin said. A hands-on activities session, including the chance to handle Native American artifacts will be offered at 10:30 a.m.

              Traditional Native American dances, with audience members invited to participate, will be offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

              The 12:30 p.m. program will offer a series of short Native American films followed by dance and slam poetry sessions. A “Town Hall” discussion is planned for 2 p.m. on the issue “Native American: Diversity and Identity.”

              The days ends with a 5:30 p.m. dinner featuring traditional Native American foods and literature in the Russell Wright Alumni House and Conference Center. For details on the dinner call McCollin at 724.738.2462.

              The day is sponsored by a the SRU President’s Commission Racial and Ethnic Diversity; William Williams, provost and vice president for academic affairs; Charles Curry, vice president for finance and administrative affairs; the University Program Board; the Frederick Douglass Institute; and the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.