On Sept. 17, the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center hosted the seventh annual Native American Festival, a celebration of Native American Heritage through the likes of art, music, dance, storytelling and historical legends. The festival took place at the amphitheater and served to both educate and entertain all who attended.

“This was our first time here,” said Amanda, the owner of Pueblo Arts and Crafts, one of the many vendors set up along the outskirts of the amphitheater. “Our favorite part is interacting with the students.”

Pubelo Arts and Crafts featured many handmade creations such as jewelry and dolls, all crafted by members of the Native American culture. Set up beside of them was Amy Postak, a finger-weaver who was also getting to experience the festival for the first time.

“Sharing my craft with everyone is my favorite part,” said Postak. “Everyone finds everything so pretty.”

Emerson Begay of the Navajo Tribe, however, is a Native American Festival veteran – this is his fourth year in attendance. Begay is an internationally-known traditional dancer, flute player, artist, guitar player and cultural educator. He danced in festivals around the region for many years, until an infection led to the amputation of his foot, but that didn’t stop Begay from attending festivals and educating others about his culture – he now takes pride in selling his drawings and crafts.

“My favorite part of the festival is seeing people learning our culture and reuniting with old friends,” said Begay.

The Native American Festival hosted tribes such as the Cherokee, Choctaw and Lakota. It was an event that promoted equality and inclusion of all ages and one that faculty, students and festivalgoers alike hope to see the return of for many years to come.

“We don’t dance because we have to,” said the Master of Ceremonies. “We dance because we want to. We are dancing for the people who are sick, for the people who are ill, for the people that can’t dance.”

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