Screening of Join or Die
November 28 | 12:45–2:30 p.m., Kirby Auditorium
Free admission
In this Emmy-nominated feature documentary, follow the half-century story of America’s civic unraveling through the journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam, whose groundbreaking “Bowling Alone” research into America’s decades-long decline in community connections could hold the answers to our democracy’s present crisis.
Flanked by influential fans and scholars—from Priya Parker, Pete Buttigieg, and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to Jane McAlevey, Hillary Clinton, and Eddie Glaude Jr.—as well as inspiring groups building community in neighborhoods across the country, join Bob as he explores three urgent civic questions: What makes democracy work? Why is American democracy in crisis? And, most importantly… What can we do about it? Presented in partnership with
Beaded Adornments Workshop featuring artist Tchin
1 – 2 p.m., Kenneth C. Griffin Great Hall Lobby
Beadwork is both beautiful and meaningful— it can be simply decorative, but also used to communicate and document knowledge. Beads were traditionally made of found materials like stones and quills, and in the 1600s, glass beads were incorporated because of European trade. Beadwork is one of the most beautiful Indigenous art forms, and participants will be able to experience this by making either a beaded necklace, bracelet, or earrings. Enjoyed by ages 5+.
Tchin (pronounced 'chin) is a nationally known, multi-award winning artist. He attended the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, N.M., and graduated from Rhode Island School of Design. Tchin is an accomplished musician, flutemaker, folklorist, jewelry designer, educator, author, painter, and clothing designer.
History of Thanksgiving Show
Noon and 2 p.m.; Kenneth C. Griffin Great Hall Overlook
Visitors are invited to join in on an interactive History of Thanksgiving show, exploring the origins and importance of this national holiday. Learn about the Wampanoag people who lived in what is now New England, and the historic meal they shared with European settlers in 1621. We’ll explore more about the Wampanoag and their culture, the events leading up to the harvest feast that year, and what foods they may have eaten (it may surprise you!). Learn about the role presidents have played in creating the Thanksgiving holiday as well as popular Thanksgiving traditions, including the presidential turkey pardon.
Indigenous Influence on the Constitution
10:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m., 2:45 p.m.; Kenneth C. Griffin Great Hall Overlook
What intellectual sources did the founders use when drafting the Constitution? Join us as we examine the influence Indigenous peoples and tribal governments like the Iroquois Confederacy had on the founders and the ideas enshrined in the Constitution.
Speaking Out With the Suffragists: Zitkala-Ša
11:45 a.m., 1:45 p.m., 3:45 p.m.; The 19th Amendment: How Women Won the Vote
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, join us in The 19th Amendment: How Women Won the Vote to learn about Zitkala-Ša. As an author, musician, and activist, she founded the National Council of American Indians, wrote the first opera by a Native American, and fought for equality and suffrage throughout the United States.
Indigenous History Activity Stations
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Kenneth C. Griffin Great Hall Lobby
Join us for a corn husk doll workshop and create your own to take home. Or learn some words and phrases in Lenape/Delaware, the language spoken by the Lenape peoples who once inhabited this very land, and explore a map of the United States centuries before the founders!
Native American Heritage Story Corner & Quiet Room
10 a.m.–5 p.m., Freedom Classroom
Visitors can explore the history and heritage of Native Americans in our Story Corner room. Read Remember by Joy Harjo, Powwow Day by Traci Sorell, Rock Your Mocs by Laurel Goodluck, and more! Or simply relax and color in this quiet space filled with calming blue lights and sensory bins.
