The Retort

MSU Billings hosted American Indian Heritage Day - Art, tipis, games, and dancing filled main campus for day or cultural awareness

October 22nd, 2010 by MSU Billings News Services For The Retort

The unique cultures and philosophies of American Indians were celebrated in full on September 24 during 2010 American Indian Heritage Day at Montana State University Billings.

College students and other participants from tribes throughout the state filled the university’s main campus for art, games, and educational activities during the event, from 8:30 am to 2 pm. All events — which took place between the Student Union Building and McMullen Hall — were free and open to everyone.

Reno Charette, director of American Indian Outreach at MSU Billings and coordinator of the event, said American Indian Heritage Day is a perfect opportunity for the university and the Billings community to become more acquainted with a rich and diverse heritage.

Registration opened at 8:10 am in the Student Union Building. The activities began at 8:30 am with a traditional flag-raising followed by nearly a host of different venues about American Indian culture. Some events were scheduled around MSU Billings class times so that faculty and students could attend as a class, Charette said.

Events included:

• Ledger art demonstrations and activities (all day)
• Tipi raising techniques and demonstrations (9:20-10:20 am)
• Native games in Peaks to Plains Park (10:30-11:30 am)
• Fashion Show in the SUB (11:30 am to 12:30 pm)
• Plains Indian sign language demonstration and discussion with Ron Garritson (11:40 am -12:40 pm)
• Native Dancers in the SUB/McMullen mall area (12:50-2:20 pm)

Exhibitors and vendors were also part of the event.