The Michigan State University Museum will celebrate Native American Heritage Month this November with three public programs featuring Indigenous poets, storytellers, and artists whose work connects cultural traditions with contemporary creative expression.
Through poetry, Indigenous futurisms, and hip-hop, the programs explore how storytelling preserves cultural knowledge, strengthens communities, and helps shape the future. The celebration also complements an exhibition of contemporary Anishinaabe quillwork currently on view at the Museum.
“Native American Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous cultures and histories while recognizing the sovereignty and contemporary contributions of Tribal Nations and Native peoples,” said Dr. Kevin P. Leonard (Waabshka Mai’ingan, or White Wolf), director of the MSU Native American Institute within the Office of University Outreach and Engagement. “These programs create opportunities to learn from Indigenous perspectives and recognize that Native communities are living, thriving communities whose voices continue to shape our shared future.”
The series begins Wednesday, November 4, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with a Native American Heritage Poetry Reading featuring acclaimed poet and writer Esther Belin. Her poetry explores Indigenous identity, cultural memory, and contemporary Native experiences, demonstrating how creative expression can connect generations and challenge stereotypes.
On Wednesday, November 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., award-winning writer, educator, and entrepreneur Dr. Lee Francis IV (Pueblo of Laguna), known as Dr. IndigiNerd, will lead Speculative Futures | Stories with Dr. IndigiNerd. Founder and chief imagination officer of the Indigenous Imagination Workshop, Francis also founded Indigenous Comic Con, the Indigenous Futurisms Festival, and Red Planet Books and Comics. The conversation will explore how Indigenous storytelling, comics, and creativity can challenge conventional narratives and envision new possibilities.
The celebration continues Friday, November 13, from noon to 3 p.m. with The Sacred Cypher: Hip-Hop Workshop with ishKode. Indigenous artist ishKode, also known as Sacramento Knoxx, will lead an interactive workshop connecting music, storytelling, community, and emerging technologies. Participants will explore hip-hop as a form of cultural expression, knowledge sharing, and community connection.
Visitors can also experience Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons / It’s Not Just a Quill Box, on view through January 30, 2027. Presented in Anishinaabemowin and English, the exhibition shares the artistry and cultural knowledge of contemporary Anishinaabe quillwork artists through artworks, photographs, and personal stories.
Together, the exhibition and public programs reflect the Museum’s commitment to connecting audiences with diverse perspectives, cultural traditions, and the creativity of contemporary Indigenous communities.