Minot, N.D. – This November, Minot State University is honoring Native American Heritage Month through a series of events organized by the campus’s Native American Cultural Center. The Center, located on the third floor of the student center, serves as a welcoming space for students, faculty and visitors to learn about Indigenous cultures, engage with community members and celebrate the contributions of Native peoples.
Activities and displays foster connection
Coordinator Lisa Hale explained that the Center’s programming includes student‑led activities, artifact displays and open‑door hours that invite anyone on campus to explore Indigenous history and contemporary life. “We have a lot of Indigenous community members here, and I want Native American students to know they’re not alone,” Hale said. “We’re all here to help together as a family.”
Throughout the month, the Center has organized cultural workshops, storytelling sessions and art exhibitions that highlight the rich traditions of the region’s tribes. These events are designed to encourage dialogue between Indigenous students and their peers, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Fort Totten boarding school survivor shares her story
A highlight of the month’s programming was a talk by Dr. Ramona Klein, a survivor of the historic Fort Totten Boarding School. Dr. Klein recounted her experiences growing up under a system that sought to erase Native identity, and she spoke about the resilience of her community. Her presentation offered a personal perspective on a painful chapter of American history while underscoring the importance of preserving Indigenous languages and customs.
Audience members responded positively, noting that hearing a first‑hand account helped them grasp the lasting impact of boarding schools on Native families. The discussion also emphasized the role of education in healing and reconciliation.
Community involvement and future plans
Hale emphasized that the Cultural Center’s mission extends beyond November. “Our goal is to keep these conversations going all year long,” she said. The Center plans to expand its outreach by partnering with local tribal organizations, offering mentorship programs for high‑school students and hosting additional cultural festivals.
Students and faculty are encouraged to volunteer, donate artifacts or suggest programming ideas. The Center’s open‑door policy means that anyone interested in learning about Indigenous heritage can drop in during regular hours.
Why the celebration matters
Native American Heritage Month provides an opportunity for the Minot community to recognize the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the region’s history, economy and cultural fabric. By highlighting stories like Dr. Klein’s and showcasing tribal art, the university helps counter stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive campus environment.
Local leaders have praised the Center’s efforts as a model for other institutions seeking to honor diversity while strengthening family and community bonds. The initiative aligns with broader goals of fostering respect for tradition, faith and individual liberty—values that resonate throughout North Dakota’s neighborhoods.
For more information about upcoming events or to get involved, visit the Native American Cultural Center’s page on the Minot State website.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
