Take advantage of the opportunity to meet
and speak with Native American artists from nations such as Sioux,
Navajo, Winnebago, Cherokee, and Mohawk June 17 – 19 at the 11th
annual "New York City American Heritage Celebration,"
commemorating the summer solstice.
The director of the event, Cliff Matias, told GO Brooklyn, "We
do not celebrate our holidays on a certain day. Rather, we celebrate
the changing of the seasons. Our holidays will coincide with
the stars."
Festivities include Native American singing, dancing, drumming,
flute playing and works of art.
Ten-year-old Bow Roberts (at left) is a performer demonstrating
the "grass dance," according to Matias, which will
open the ceremonies on Saturday at 1 pm. The "grass dance,"
which serves to stomp the grass down prior to other dances, was
previously performed to prepare for a plane’s arrival. In the
"grass dance," the dancer’s eyes are covered to protect
them from the dust that rises from his exertions.
In addition to viewing the performances, visitors can sample
Native American cuisine at the celebration. Authentic Native
American pottery, carvings, paintings and leatherwork will all
be displayed and available for sale.
The Redhawk Indian Arts Council will host its 11th annual "New
York City American Heritage Celebration" at the Gateway
National Recreation Area’s Floyd Bennet Field (Kings Highway
at Flatbush Avenue). Suggested donations are $10 for adults and
$5 for children and senior citizens. For the performance schedule
visit the Web site at www.redhawkcouncil.org
or call (718) 686-9297.
