UC San Diego Celebrates Native American Heritage Month

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Every November, UC San Diego recognizes and celebrates the achievements, cultures, and contributions of Native American people and tribes during Native American Heritage Month. The UC San Diego community greatly respects the land and the Kumeyaay people of the area where our campus is located. We acknowledge their tremendous contributions to our region and thank them for their stewardship.

Students, faculty and staff are invited to participate in a variety of free events for UC San Diego’s 18th anniversary celebration. Speakers, performances, workshops, film screenings and more were coordinated by the Native American Heritage Month Planning Committee to increase Native American presence on campus, support Native American students and honor our local tribal communities.

The lineup of activities begins on Nov. 13 with a free Kickoff Celebration event featuring keynote speaker Dr. Cutcha Risling Baldy (Hupa, Karuk and Yurok). An author, researcher and professor, Dr. Risling Baldy is also a vocal advocate for Indigenous feminism, California Indians, environmental justice and decolonization. The celebration also includes live performances from Kumeyaay Bird Singers, Soaring Eagles Powwow Dancers and the Green River Singers.

Native American Heritage Month events

The Intertribal Resource Center (ITRC) and the Native American Heritage Month Planning Committee invite all campus community members to participate in the monthlong series of events. Additional events may be added throughout the month, so check the Native American Heritage Month site for updates.

Skoden Wellness Club
Nov. 14 | 12-1 p.m. | Intertribal Resource Center

Take time for self-care with Shandiin (Diné), a Native alumna, as she leads a session on wellness, self-care and stress relief. Unwind, relax and learn strategies to break away from the pressures of daily life. Treat yourself to an hour of wellbeing and joy with us. No RSVP is necessary for this free event.

Language and Culture Table
Nov. 15 | 12-1 p.m. | Intertribal Resource Center

Join us for an engaging session on the role of magic systems in fiction presented by Cole Neal, Iipay Kumeyaay student assistant at the ITRC. Explore how magic brings mystery and excitement across genres. Everyone is welcome to this free event and food will be served during the presentation.

Beyond Land Acknowledgments Workshop
Nov. 19 | 1-3 p.m. | Intertribal Resource Center

Beyond Land Acknowledgements, led by ITRC Coordinator Michaela Allen Sanchez (Lipan Apache and Mexican-American), is an engaging and introspective workshop aimed at moving beyond traditional land acknowledgments towards fostering genuine support and allyship for Native students and communities at UC San Diego and beyond. In this session, participants will delve into critical discussions about their positionalities and explore departmental protocols to identify opportunities for growth and advocacy. Through interactive activities and guided reflections, participants will develop a deeper understanding of creating tangible forms of support. By the end of the workshop, attendees will walk away equipped with actionable items to enact positive change for the betterment of Native communities within their spheres of influence.

“Smoke Signals” Film Screening and Dinner
Nov. 20 | 5-7 p.m. | Intertribal Resource Center

Join us for a special screening of the heartwarming coming-of-age film “Smoke Signals” (1998). A cult-classic in the Native American community, this film explores themes of identity, family and healing through the humorous and heartfelt journey of best friends Victor and Thomas. Dinner and beverages will be provided by the ITRC.

Beading Workshop
Nov. 25 | 1-2:30 p.m. | Intertribal Resource Center

Learn how to make beautiful powwow-style beaded earrings or bring your beading project! Beading holds a deep significance in many Native communities, serving as a form of artistic expression and a way to pass down culture, stories and traditions through generations. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and create! This workshop is beginner-friendly and open to everyone.