By Steven Dlugosz
Buffalo State College has featured an abundance
of interesting events for Native American Heritage
Month thus far, and anticipates the end of the
month to be just as exciting. Former Sabres coach Ted Nolan
spoke recently in Assembly Hall, and audiences
will be treated to the following events in the near future:
- University at Buffalo Professor Oren
Lyons will give a speech on April 23
from 6-8 p.m. in the Fireside Lounge
- Buffalo State College sophomore Laticia
McNaughton will perform a workshop demonstration
on April 24 from 12-2 p.m. in Assembly Hall.
Featured people and events
Lyons had been director of Native American Studies
at U.B. for 32 years before stepping down this year.
He is currently a member of the Onondaga Indian Council
in Syracuse. His speech, titled “History of
the Haudenosaunee,” will be directed toward
old Native American heritage. The new Native American heritage
has differed somewhat in theory from the old heritage, and
Lyons wants Native Americans to appreciate their original
roots.
“My speech will be on what direction we are going, and
what our Indian priorities are. I want my talk to be as helpful
as possible,” Lyons said.
Lyons will also talk about the lack of outside support for
Native culture.
“It’s a major question as to why this current
Native heritage month isn’t more recognizable. A major
reason for this is that the state and federal government aren’t
more active in supporting this month. They have lots of money,
but when it comes to Native Americans they don’t have
any,” Lyons said.
Lyons also mentioned that new developments, such as the new
casino and the smuggling of illegal goods on the Tuscarora
Indian Reservation, have hindered local Native American development.
These events hurt Native American image, and Lyons said that
the casino violates their beliefs of not gambling.
Lyons’ speech will also focus on positive events, such
as the growth of the Native heritage celebration at BSC.
“It’s positive that young people in the Native
American Student Services started promoting Indian people
and nations back in 1990…My talk will also focus on
what they accomplished.”
McNaughton’s “Dreamcatcher’s Workshop”
will focus on the background and origin of Southwest Native
American art.
McNaughton, who is a member of the Native American Student
Organization at BSC, says her workshop will be an enjoyable
experience.
“I have performed these kinds of activities in front
of people since I was in grammar school…I think this
event will definitely be a fun time,” McNaughton said.
Additional Links:
montoul@buffalostate.edu
(for more information on the events)
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