The Native American Studies minor program at Ball State seeks to enrich our understanding of the indigenous cultures of North America. We offer a diverse selection of courses from departments across campus.  Each year the anthropology department offers student activities and resources related to the Native American Studies minor program.  For more information contact Dr. Colleen Boyd, Director, Native American Studies minor program (phone: 765-285-3586; email: ceboyd@bsu.edu).

Why Study Native Societies?

Indigenous peoples are still here – in the United States and the Midwest. The U.S. Census reports there are 18,600 American Indians living in the State of Indiana – other sources report even higher numbers.

Federally recognized tribal governments form a third tier of America's democratic system. All Americans are responsible for understanding how their governmental system operates and how tribal, state and federal governments interact.

Native American Studies courses include issues important to the present and the future of our planet - they are for everyone – We study the environment, human rights, regional and national history, heritage preservation, economic development, community enhancement, federal law , differing philosophies and epistemologies and more.

Learning about America's first nations prepares all citizens to live in a complex global society. The more you know, the more you know!

Cultural diversity is a fact of life – it is not just about America's past – it's our future.

Native American Studies Courses for 2009-2010

Fall Semester              2009

ANTH 360/560 Ethnohistory of U.S./Native American Relations (elective for the NA Minor)

3 credits                                                          Boyd

ANTH 482/582 Southwest Native America (elective for the NA Minor)

3 credits                                                          Waite

NREM 371 Outdoor Recreation and Society (elective for NA Minor)

3 credits                                                          Gregg

Spring Semester          2010

ANTH 231 Introduction to Native American Studies

(This is a Tier 2 course and is required for the NA Minor)

3 credits                                                          Boyd

Events for Fall Semester 2009 all events are free to the public

Michael Jacobs Concert, September 15, 2009, Pruis Hall, 8 PM, Reception following.  Mr. Jacobs is an award-winning Cherokee recording artist. who writes and performs his own music (Native American, folk, world).

Native American Film Series Violence and Indigenous Communities

Finding Dawn (Aboriginal Canada)

7 PM, BB 300, September 22

Once Were Warriors (Maori, New Zealand)

7 PM, BB 300, October 20

G Methamphetamine on the Navajo Nation (Navajo Nation, US)

7 PM, BB 300, November 10

Native American Heritage Day August 29, 2009 at Garfield Park,

Indianapolis, IN, 10-7 pm

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/community/calendar/51212682.html

Vendors, educational booths, performances, Arts and Crafts demonstrations, health screenings, games, seminars 

Native American Advisory Committee, 2009-2010

Boyd, Colleen, Assistant Professor of Anthropology

John Boyd, Assistant Professor of English

Olon Dotson, Professor of Architecture

Amy Gregg, Associate Professor of Natural Resources

Sharon Red Hawk Love, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

Patricia Lovett, Director of the Multicultural Center

Carolyn MacKay, Professor of English

Kenan Metzger, Assistant Professor of English

Elizabeth Nesbitt, Instructor of English

Frank Trechsel, Professor of English

New Native American Resource Room,
Department of Anthropology BB 319 Now Open

Interested in Native Americans? 
Need to do some research? 
Want to visit with friends, access the internet or view a film?

Visit the new Native American Resource Room in Burkhardt Building 319 today!

Our materials cover broad topics with a special focus on tribal cultures and histories of the Eastern Woodlands.  We gladly accept donations!

 Resources

·  Books, films, journals

·  Internet access

·  TV/DVD player

·  Space to study and meet friends

November is American Indian Heritage Month 

By a Presidential proclamation in 2002, November is officially designated National American Indian Heritage Month.  Excerpts from the proclamation are presented below:

"During American Indian Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich cultural traditions and proud ancestry of American Indians and Alaska Natives, and we recognize the vital contributions these groups have made to the strength and diversity of our society.

American Indians and Alaska Natives have played a central role in our history. In 1805 and 1806, Sakajawea, a Shoshone Indian woman, helped guide Lewis and Clark on their historic expedition to explore the uncharted West. This remarkable journey, known as the "Voyage of Discovery," would not have been possible without her efforts, and today she remains a proud symbol of American Indian courage and strength.

We are also grateful to the Navajo Codetalkers for their service during World War II. Participating in every assault the U.S. Marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942-1945, the Navajo Codetalkers relayed secret messages that helped our Nation and the allies secure victory. The Congress recognized these heroes by authorizing the President to award them Congressional Gold Medals. These examples of our true American spirit reflect our shared history and serve as reminders of the unique heritage of American Indians and Alaska Natives."