In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, Penn State is set to host an assortment of events throughout the month of November to honor the rich traditions and culture of Native people.

The month is jam-packed with festivals, lectures, and other campus events to recognize and uplift indigenous voices and experiences. 

Centre Film Festival: Monday, October 30, To Sunday, November 5

The Centre Film Festival is set to hold an “Indigenous Peoples Heritage track” on Monday, October 30 to Sunday, November 5, at the State Theatre and Rowland Theatre in Philipsburg.

The festival will include eight distinct films that highlight the stories and histories of Native American and indigenous peoples. Tickets for the event can be found here. 

Geovanni Siquihua Lecture: Friday, November 3

Geovanni Siquihua, a Kichwa indigenous leader, is set to speak at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, November 3, at the Walker Building and via Zoom. The lecture is in collaboration with the geography department’s “coffee hour” lecture series. Siquihua will discuss the current resistance to oil extraction in Ecuador and the extraction’s negative effects on communities in the Amazon rainforest. Registration for the Zoom event can be found here. 

Chef Freddie J. Bitsoie Talk: Monday, November 6

Penn State Sustainability and the Centre Film Festival will host renowned Navajo chef Freddie J. Bitsoie at noon on Monday, November 6, in the Foster Auditorium. Bitsoie’s presentation in the Sustainability Showcase will demonstrate the diverse culture of Native American cuisine and the global impact of indigenous cooking practices. 

Penn State Campus Dining Indigenous Meal: Tuesday, November 7 

Penn State Campus Dining is set to host an indigenous-focused event on Tuesday, November 7, at the East Food District. The meal, crafted by chef Bitsoie, will showcase and honor the best of Native American cuisine. 

Friendsgiving Event: Thursday, November 16

A campus “Friendsgiving” event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 16, in Heritage Hall in the HUB. The free event will feature talented poetry artist Evita Colon, musical performances, dinner, and more.

More information regarding National Hispanic Heritage Month and a full slate of the events scheduled throughout the month can be found here.