The Institute for American Indian Studies hosts an Evening of Native American Traditions with Dr. Kimmerer and a Dance by Pilobolus

The Institute for American Indian Studies is hosting an evening with Robin Wall Kimmerer, founder, and director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment. This event will include a Native American-inspired performance by the nationally known dance troupe, Pilobolus that will take place on Friday, October 28 at 6 p.m. at the Thomas S. Perakos Arts and Community Center located at 22 Kirby Road in Washington, Connecticut. 

Robin Wall Kimmerer, Citizen Potawatomi Nation, is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and best-selling author of several books including Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants and Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses. Robin tours widely and has been featured on NPR's On Being with Krista Tippett and, in 2015; she addressed the general assembly of the United Nations on the topic of "Healing Our Relationship with Nature." On this special evening, Dr. Kimmerer will participate in a moderated discussion about her work that focuses on traditional ecological knowledge and how it can be used to foster sustainability and envision a future of healing. If you plan to attend this event, you may submit questions to Dr. Kimmerer by emailing events@iaismuseum.org with the subject line Questions for Robin Wall Kimmerer.

A highlight of this event will be the performance by the nationally known dance troupe, Pilobolus of "The Ballad" which is a collaboration with the Institute for American Indian Studies Native American storyteller, Darlene Kascak, Schaghticoke. The Ballad is a moving and emotional performance that tells an epic story of the history of tribal nations' sacred relationship with Mother Earth and the injustices suffered by indigenous communities. The final message of this performance, so eloquently portrayed, by Pilobolus is that we have to take care of Mother Earth so she can take care of us. Pilobolus is celebrating 50 years of modern dance and The Ballad is one of the highlights of their Big Five-Oh! national tour that has met with rave reviews.

The Ballad -photo Ben McKeown

This event is free (donations are appreciated) and is brought to attendees by the Institute for American Indian Studies, The Frederick Gunn School, The Taft School, a grant from the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, and donations from members of the Institute. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot click here.