The American Indian Studies Program is sponsoring a slide presentation and lecture as part of its speaker series at 7:30 p.m. today in the McDonel Kiva.
The event is free and open to the public.
Gregory Cajete is director of the Native American Studies Program and associate professor of education at University of New Mexico. During the lecture, “Native Science: Natural Laws of Interdependence,” Cajete will discuss indigenous perspectives of reality in the areas of art, myth, ceremony and symbol, and Native science.
Patricia Dyer-Deckrow, coordinator of Native American Student Affairs for the Office of Racial Ethnic Student Affairs, said Cajete will discuss the role of minority students when embracing their own culture and that of the dominant society.
“We like to try to make sure we give presentations from different fields to show the diversity within the Native population itself,” she said. “We like to encourage others to come and learn. Maybe they are struggling as far as career options they can pursue.”
Joseph Cousins, an international student adviser, said he thinks Cajete will present information all students can relate to.
“I think it’s something that should be targeted, not only to the Native community but to the majority community,” he said. “Anything that can enhance the education of students about Native American culture is positive. I would support that in terms of the knowledge it would impart and the interaction that would occur with this type of presentation.”
Jefferson Faye, visiting assistant professor of science and technology who studies at Lyman Briggs, said Cajete’s work in Native American education is exceptional.
“He really is a leader in addressing the issues of educating American Indian students,” he said. “He brings up issues people don’t normally talk about, and he is a role model.”
Faye said it is important for students to experience a successful Native American.
“We have a small but growing American Indian student population,” he said. “It’s important for them to see an American Indians who have made it and are influential in their fields.”
