Long Beach Library, Arts and Culture Celebrates Native American Heritage Month, Honors Indigenous Voices

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach Department of Library, Arts and Culture (LAC) invites the community to celebrate Native American Heritage Month this November with free programs honoring the histories, cultures, creativity and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples.

"Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the enduring contributions of Indigenous peoples and ensure their stories, traditions and perspectives remain part of our shared community," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "Our libraries help bring these voices forward for generations to come."

Throughout November, residents of all ages are invited to explore Indigenous voices, stories and traditions through author talks, presentations, storytelling, hands-on activities, book displays and reading recommendations at library locations across Long Beach.

"Through Indigenous storytelling, art, and literature, our libraries create opportunities to learn from Native voices and celebrate the richness of their cultures," said Cathy De Leon, Director of the Department of Library, Arts and Culture. "We welcome everyone to connect, discover and learn together."

Featured programs include:

• Indigenize the City: The Sacred Path Indigenous Wellness Center's Indigenous Youth Advisory Council presents an exhibition highlighting local Indigenous artists and their perspectives, experiences, stories and connections to land and community. This evening of art, community and connection will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5, at Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W. Broadway).
• Online Author Talk - Asha Frost, You Are the Medicine: Author Asha Frost, a member of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation, will discuss her book, "You Are the Medicine: 13 Indigenous Teachings to Connect to Your Inner Wisdom, Reclaim Your Power, and Heal," which explores Indigenous teachings and personal healing. Join the online author talk at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Registration is required.
• 250 - History of the United States Through the Eyes of American Indians and the Impact of Colonization: Shannon Rivers, a member of the Akimel O'otham (River People) Nation and an Indigenous human rights activist, will share Indigenous perspectives on U.S. history, the impacts of colonization and the ongoing movement for Indigenous peoples' rights. The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Billie Jean King Main Library.
• Online Author Talk - Rebecca Roanhorse, Between Earth and Sky: Author Rebecca Roanhorse will discuss her "Between Earth and Sky" trilogy during an online author talk at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19.Registration is required.
• Stories and Songs of Native California: Louis Paul John Epifanio Valenzuela Robles, an enrolled tribal member of the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, will share the history and culture of Native California through stories, songs and personal anecdotes.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 5 p.m., Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library (5870 Atlantic Ave.)
  • Saturday, Nov. 21, at 11:30 a.m., Brewitt Neighborhood Library (4036 E. Anaheim St.)

Additional programs throughout November will offer opportunities for families and adults to learn, create and celebrate together:

• Adult Crafting Hour - Bead Art: Participants will create bead brooches while learning about beadwork traditions among Indigenous peoples, taking place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library
• Native American Pottery: Participants ages 7 and older can learn the basics of hand-building with clay and create their own air-dry clay pots, taking place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Dana Neighborhood Library (3680 Atlantic Ave.).
• Native American Heritage Storytime: Families can enjoy stories, songs, bubbles, and hands-on activities, taking place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 20, at Dana Neighborhood Library. The program is best suited for children ages 9 months to 3 years, but all are welcome.

LAC's Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) programming is generously supported by the Friends of the Long Beach Public Library. For a complete schedule of NAHM programs, visit the library's NAHM events calendar or call the library at 562.570.7500. Additional educational materials and community resources are available through the library's Cultural Celebrations webpage.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, the award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Public Library visit www.lbpl.org and follow @lbcitylibrary on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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