The University of New Mexico

NEWS RELEASE

Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, 277-1593, michal@unm.edu

October 6, 2008

UNM Celebrates Indigenous Day

The University of New Mexico Native American Studies Indigenous Research Group celebrates Indigenous Day on Monday, Oct. 13, to reclaim Columbus Day for native peoples. The events feature a keynote speech by National Congress of American Indians President Joe Garcia.

The day begins with a sunrise ceremony on Johnson Field, starting at 6 a.m. The Department of Native American Studies hosts a potluck breakfast at 9 a.m. in Mesa Vista Hall 3080.

The keynote by Joe Garcia will be held at noon in the Student Union Building atrium, along with speeches by NASIRG chairs Lani Tsinnajinnie, Dina Gilio and Mario Atencio, a poster presentation, and indigenous street theatre.

Garcia graduated from UNM with a Bachelor of Science in 1985. In addition to serving as NCAI’s president, he is chairman of the All Indian Pueblo Council and a former governor of Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo.

Events may also include a film festival, Aztec Dancers and a poetry slam, details to be announced.

NASIRG’s purpose is to encourage research participation, raise consciousness regarding indigenous issues, increase student community involvement and foster the exchange of ideas through academic and peer support.