Woodward Public Library has received a $1,200 grant from Oklahoma Humanities to host a new book discussion group focused on Native American identity.
The series, titled Native American Identity From Past to Present: A More Perfect Union Theme, will explore Native identity through the works of Native writers and their experiences.
The series aims to challenge stereotypical depictions in popular culture and address the complexities of Native identity.
“The discussions will take place on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m., starting Feb. 4, and will alternate between the Woodward Public Library and the Plains Indians & Pioneer Museum, who happens to be our program partner this year,” said Andrea Davis, adult services librarian at Woodward Public Library.
The program is free and open to the public, and books are available for pick-up at the library, she added.
Mikel M. Robinson, executive director of the Plains Indians & Pioneer Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership.
“We are excited to embark on this new collaboration with the library to bring the Let’s Talk About It program to the community,” Robinson said. “The theme for the spring season aligns perfectly with the museum’s mission and the cultural heritage of the area.”
The book discussions will feature five books: “Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley, “There There” by Tommy Orange, “The Removed” by Brandon Hobson, “Bad Indians: A Tribal Memoir” by Deborah Miranda, and “The Round House” by Louise Erdrich.
“We invite everyone to join us for one session or the entire series as experts lead discussions on selected books,” Davis said. “Each session will include an analysis of the text, an exploration of recurring themes, insights into the authors’ lives, and relevant historical context.”
This initiative is made possible through the support of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, McCasland Foundation, and Oklahoma City University, she said.
Oklahoma Humanities is an independent nonprofit organization that strengthens communities by promoting discussions about human experiences. As the state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, Oklahoma Humanities offers various educational programs, including reading groups and traveling exhibits.
The schedule for the series is as follows (All sessions begin at 6 p.m.):
Feb. 4: “Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley, led by Dr. Tonya Robinson at the Woodward Public Library
Feb. 25: “There There” by Tommy Orange, led by Dr. Deena Fisher at the Plains Indians & Pioneer Museum
Mar. 25: “The Removed” by Brandon Hobson, led by Dr. Shawn Holliday at the Woodward Public Library
Apr. 22: “Bad Indians: A Tribal Memoir” by Deborah Miranda, led by Dr. Roxie James at the Plains Indians & Pioneer Museum
May 27: “The Round House” by Louise Erdrich, led by Karen Ansley at the Woodward Public Library
For more information, contact Davis at 580-254-8544 or [email protected].
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