Politics & Government
Mason Powwow Honors Veterans
GMU's Native American & Indigenous Alliance honored veterans, recognized Native American Heritage Month at their 9th Annual Veterans' Powwow.
The Native American & Indigenous Alliance at hosted their 9th Annual Veterans' Powwow Thursday. "It's a tradition at George Mason to honor all veterans at Veterans' Day with the tradition of the Powwow," said Shaoxian Yu, faculty director of the Alliance.
The powwow, featuring music and dance, is a central social event in indigenous cultures. Yu said the tradition of the powwow always honors warriors, veterans and elders.
"This particular event has become a hallmark of diversity at GMU," said Yu. He said the Veterans' Powwow, held each year in conjunction with Native American Heritage Month and Veterans' Day, serves to educate the campus and showcase the diversity that exists at GMU.
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"Throughout the day people from many cultures, many places, have come to watch and participate," said Yu. "It's a beautiful picture of diversity."
Yu said about 100 GMU students curretnly identify themselves as Native American or Indigenous. According to a Native American & Indigenous Studies brochure, this is "among the largest percentage of any college or university in the D.C. metro area." GMU is the only school in the area offering a Native Studies program.
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Events at GMU honoring Native American Heritage Month continue next week.
- Tuesday, November 15, 7 p.m.
SUB 2 Ballroom
Screening of the documentary film Standing Silent Nation (2008)
Office of Diversity Programs & Services, SUB 1 2400
Identity: Student Panel Discussion
A discussion of "what it's like to be multiethnic, including the perks and challenges of balancing multiple identities."
Johnson Center Dewberry Hall North
Trail of Tears Intertribal Dance Troupe's Performance and Annual Toy Drive
Bring a new toy, backpack or school supplies to this performance, which supports Lakota children from birth to age 14 living on the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota, one of the poorest areas in the world.
Office of Diversity Programs & Services, SUB 1 2400
Native American & Indigenous Alliance Meeting and Potluck Dinner
Attendees are encouraged to bring a traditional Native dish.
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