We the Native People

In this presentation, Kim will discuss what was happening in the country regarding Native Americans at the time the Declaration of Independence was signed. She will discuss how the signing of that document affected the Native people and whether it mentioned them. She will also discuss how the government and its people viewed Native Americans and the consequences of those views. Kim will emphasize the impact the document had on the lives of the Native people and what ultimately was lost, and how those fundamental differences between the government and the Native people ultimately led to conflicts. Kim will also explain how Native people viewed their land and why the ultimate loss of it negatively impacted them. Kim will discuss how they once lived, worked the land, and raised their children, and explain what was lost of their culture as western expansion moved forward. Kim will lead the audience into the lives of the Native people through a traditional story and song. The audience will have the chance to learn music, drum, sing, and play other Native American instruments. Traditional native foods will also be discussed, and a recipe will be handed out. This presentation will end with a Q&A with the audience. This presentation aligns with the Illinois America 250 Commission's theme “We the People.” This theme invites us to explore ideas of who has been included and who has been left out of the nation’s promise, as well as how people from all backgrounds have shaped and reshaped what it means to be part of “the people.” The Illinois America 250 Commission's goals are to uplift local stories, places, and programs; build pride; and showcase how Illinois brings the ideals of the Declaration of Independence to life. This presentation will appeal to children, adults, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the history of Native Americans, their culture, their connection to the land, and the devastating effects of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on them and on their future. Bio:Kim Sigafus is an award-winning Ojibwa author and speaker and Illinois Humanities Road Scholar. Her family is from White Earth Reservation in Minnesota. An author of over 20 books, Kim writes Native American fiction and nonfiction, YA (young adults) , and children’s books, and travels throughout the Midwest to give presentations on her culture. Kim is the CEO of Quiet Souls Events and Education, a nonprofit organization that promotes native culture through educational programs and special events. When not working, Kim enjoys crafting Talking Feathers and singing and drumming.www.kimberlysigafus.com/ Americans with Disabilities Act Any person needing an accommodation for a disability in order to access the benefits of the Library’s services, programs, or activities under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact a Library manager by telephone at (630) 231-1552, by email at ask@wcpld.info or in writing, not less than five (5) working days prior to the program. Food Allergy Statement In consideration for being permitted to participate in this program, I understand, agree, and acknowledge that this program may contain foods and treats that may contain allergens such as dairy, eggs, wheat, nuts, and other allergens. I further acknowledge and represent that I know my allergies and have disclosed my allergens to the Library, and that I hereby release and discharge the Library and its Trustees, Officers, Employees, or Agents from any and all claims, injuries, causes of action, losses, attorneys’ fees, costs, or other damages resulting from, arising out of, or relating in any way to my participation in the program. Photo Policy The library may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the library and during library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. The library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any library web site or social media site) . Any individual that does not wish the library to use a photograph or video of them or their child should inform a library staff member prior to or while such photographs or videos are being taken. Any person needing an accommodation for a disability in order to access the benefits of the Library’s services, programs, or activities under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact a Library manager by telephone at (630) 231-1552, by email at ask@wcpld.info or in writing, not less than five (5) working days prior to the program. In consideration for being permitted to participate in this program, I understand, agree, and acknowledge that this program may contain foods and treats that may contain allergens such as dairy, eggs, wheat, nuts, and other allergens. I further acknowledge and represent that I know my allergies and have disclosed my allergens to the Library, and that I hereby release and discharge the Library and its Trustees, Officers, Employees, or Agents from any and all claims, injuries, causes of action, losses, attorneys’ fees, costs, or other damages resulting from, arising out of, or relating in any way to my participation in the program. The library may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the library and during library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. The library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any library web site or social media site) . Any individual that does not wish the library to use a photograph or video of them or their child should inform a library staff member prior to or while such photographs or videos are being taken.