Native Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of Health and Illness: Opening Reception

Description

Opening Reception – Light Refreshments 6 - 6:30 p.m. Lifting From the Center: Health and Culture in Indigenous Communities Presentation by folklorist Tim Frandy, Ph.D. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Explore the connection between health care, culture, and science at the Verona Public Library on Wednesday, September 19, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Western Kentucky University professor and folklorist Tim Frandy looks at the past, present, and future of health care in indigenous communities and at recent efforts to “decolonize health” by building on traditional medicine to create a healthier future. This presentation is offered as part of Native Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of Health and Illness, a traveling exhibition to U.S. libraries. The interactive exhibition is on view at the Verona Public Library from Thursday, September 14, through Monday, October 22. There will be an opening reception for the exhibition with light refreshments from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Native Voices explores the interconnectedness of wellness, illness, and cultural life for Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Stories drawn from both the past and present examine how health for Native People is tied to community, the land, and spirit. Through interviews, Native People describe the impact of epidemics, federal legislation, the loss of land, and the inhibition of culture on the health of Native individuals and communities today. The U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) developed and produced Native Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of Health and Illness. The American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office, in partnership with NLM, tours the exhibition to America’s libraries. The Verona Public Library is the only library in southern Wisconsin selected to host the exhibition. The exhibition, reception, and presentation are free and open to the public. For information, visit www.veronapubliclibrary.org, or call 608-845-7180. The Verona Public Library is located at 500 Silent Street.