Calaveras Enterprise

Foundation hears from native people in Columbia



The Columbia College Foundation presents “an enlightening” look at the changes and challenges of today’s American Indian experience at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16 on-campus in Columbia.

Speakers include author and ethnic studies professor Dr. Melissa Moreno of Woodland Community College and Carlos Giesdorf, the cultural coordinator of the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk. Columbia College Counselor Stephanie Beaver (a member of the Hupa tribe) moderates the event.

The Nov. 16 program continues a community lecture series hosted by the Columbia College Foundation in cooperation with college faculty and regional partners.

Beaver organized the event, and noted that perspectives of native California people are important to invite and showcase, especially in the college setting.

“This will give a missing voice and perspective in a larger public system,” Beaver said. “It’s great for natives and non-natives alike; it will help everyone gain formal academic knowledge and cultural insight they may not have had access to. It’s great for anyone who works with native people or has a desire to understand native history and present experiences. Who couldn’t benefit from that?”

“This is a chance to hear from and learn more about a vital part of our local culture, and to help bring light to their story and the history of California,” said Colette Such, Columbia College Foundation president. “The foundation is pleased to help bring these speakers together for an enlightening and educational evening.”

Held during National Native American Heritage Month, the Nov. 16 discussion is conducted inside the Dogwood Forum at Columbia College, 11600 Columbia College Drive, Columbia. The event is free to the public. The doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, visit gocolumbia.edu or call 588-5065.

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