|
Throughout the month of November, we acknowledge our commitment as an organization to recognize and respect Indigenous heritage.
While the term "Native American" is often used, the broader and more inclusive term "Indigenous" is recognized and valued for encompassing a more global perspective. "Indigenous" honors the diverse cultures and communities worldwide who have inhabited these lands for centuries, each with their unique customs, languages, and traditions. Embracing this broader term helps us honor the multitude of histories and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples.
At PAFA, we're dedicated to fostering an environment of inclusion, respect, and understanding. We've taken steps to reflect this commitment through meaningful actions. One such step was the adoption of Indigenous Peoples Day in place of Columbus Day, a move that aligns with our values of honoring the histories and cultures of the Indigenous peoples of this land.
Additionally, our team has been diligently working on crafting the organization's Living Land Acknowledgment Statement. This statement serves as an acknowledgment of the Indigenous peoples on whose ancestral lands we operate. It's a testament to our recognition of their enduring connection to these territories and a commitment to fostering relationships with the local Indigenous communities.
Further demonstrating our dedication to honoring Indigenous culture, we are in the beginning stages of curating an exhibit focused on Lenape and Indigenous art and histories. This initiative aims to celebrate the rich heritage, traditions, and stories of the Indigenous communities that have shaped and continue to influence our local area.
This Native American Heritage Month, I encourage us all to take the time to learn, reflect, and engage with the cultures, histories, and traditions of Indigenous peoples. Let's use this month as a stepping stone towards ongoing learning and appreciation for the Indigenous cultures that enrich our lives and the world around us.
Here are some ways to deepen your understanding of Indigenous histories and living communities this month:
-
Visit Indigenous Historical Sites around Philly: Take the opportunity to visit the Tamanend statue in Old City, Shackamaxon (Penns Treaty Park), The Climate Justice in Lenapehoking mural, and other Indigenous historical sites or museums that showcase artifacts, artworks, and stories of Indigenous peoples.
-
Make an Appointment to view the Indigenous artwork in our permanent collection: PAFA currently has 53 known art objects by Indigenous artists. Reach out to PAFA's Museum Staff to view pieces like the Plains Indian drawings and Benjamin West's Penn's Treaty with the Indians.
-
Support Indigenous Artists and Craftspeople: Purchase or support Indigenous artists and craftspeople, as this directly contributes to preserving their traditions and cultures.
-
Learn about Land Acknowledgments: Understand the significance of Land Acknowledgments and their role in recognizing the history and presence of Indigenous communities on the lands where we live and work. Read about PAFA's journey to adopting a Living Land Acknowledgment Statement: https://www.oise-hr.pafa.org/landacknowledgement
-
Reflect and Share Knowledge: Take time to reflect on PAFA's activities and initiatives around Indigenous advocacy and share this knowledge with others.
| 
