Storytelling Programs
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Native Stitches & Stories
This creative presentation artfully weaves Native American quilt-making, cultural education, Tribal stories and flute music into an entertaining and thought-provoking program. Explore the history of American Indian quilt designs brought to life through traditional storytelling. This collaboration with Wisconsin quilt artist Pat Ehrenberg invites you to visit the cultural regions of the Four Directions of Turtle Island from the Eastern Iroquois Woodlands to the Southwestern deserts of the Navajo. Prepare to be amazed by the common themes of two traditional art forms while connecting the past, present and future.
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Ghosts of Our Children
Debra poignantly presents a historical overview of the US Boarding School era artfully weaving the stories of Indigenous children across Turtle Island. This performance is an eye opening look at the atrocities inflicted upon Native people during this shameful time period in our History.
Audiences leave this presentation asking themselves “Why didn’t I learn about this in school?”
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The Hollywood Indian
Join Debra as she dismantles the dangerous Indian stereotypes while providing a historical overview of Indigenous people on Turtle Island. She reminds audiences that “We’re Still Here!”
Some of the challenging topics discussed will include:
“I love your costume!”
“Do you get free college?”
“There are no Indians in my church, schools or community.”
“How much Indian are you anyway?”
“How do I get an Indian name?”
“I love the Dances With Wolves movie.”
“My great-great-great Grandmother was a Cherokee Indian Princess.”
“You don’t pay taxes do you?” And, as always…
”Yes, but we Honor our Indians!” (Sports Mascots)
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Words & Willow
In this presentation, Debra offers exploration and discussion of this Sacred Tree, including Indigenous stories and teachings surrounding this ageless Medicine Woman of the Earth…Grandmother Willow.
In culminating Debra’s presentation, adult participants will be invited to create a mini Dream Catcher as a spiritual reminder of the interconnectedness of life.