Nebraska art exhibits highlight state's Indigenous heritage
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November is Native American Heritage Month. In Nebraska, colleges and universities are holding art exhibits, but nationwide, cultural groups are working to educate people about the importance of Indigenous people beyond their artwork.
The American Indian College Fund has launched a new campaign called You Can Do Something to reframe how people in Nebraska and across the country understand Indigenous history, power and culture.
The Fund's Chief Marketing and Development Officer, NancyJo Houk said the campaign spotlights the contributions Native people have made beyond their artwork.
"There are also some great scientists who have developed and produced really great things," said Houk. "The original regenerative farming, the three sisters crop planning, rocket technology, and the patterns of our ecosystem – all of that Native people have influenced hugely."
The American Indian College Fund kicked off its campaign with the premiere of What You Pass On, a Native-produced short film designed to challenge what viewers were taught about Indigenous people, and to inspire action through an online hub at indigenouseveryday.com.
While Native Americans are often known for their casinos on Indigenous land across the country, Houk said their cultural and economic significance goes much deeper.
"There are almost 600 federally recognized tribes, and just a few of them have really successful casinos," said Houk. "So, tribal nations are not actually getting rich through the casinos."
The University of Nebraska-Omaha recently held a performance by a Native drum group, which featured the importance of percussion and singing, designed to teach people about the importance of music in Indigenous culture.
