OCC Celebrates Native American Heritage Month

The history of Native Americans is extraordinarily long and significant, dating thousands of years and persisting after the pre-Columbian Era. OCC students, employees and the community are invited to join in honoring this rich history and the culture and contributions of our nation’s first people. In this month of gratitude, OCC offers two online lunch-and-learn events to increase our awareness and understanding of America’s indigenous people.

Myths and Misnomers About Native American Culture, Thursday, Nov 3, 2022 noon — 1 p.m., online. Many people seem to have stories of Native ancestors, or stories of encounters with Native people in family history. And others perhaps are interested in the cultures here in Michigan and around the country but are holding some myths, untruths and misinformation because the educational system has not taught us well. And our broader culture harbors information that is colloquial, uninformed and actually insulting. Let's talk about the "do this, don't do that" sorts of words, behaviors and attitudes that can help support a positive and rich relationship with Native peoples. Learn more and register early. 

Thanksgiving from a Native American Perspective, Tuesday, Nov. 15, noon—1 p.m., online.  

Teaching about Thanksgiving from the perspective of the Native Americans is a culturally responsive way to approach the holiday. Considering the origins, many people wonder if Native Americans even celebrate Thanksgiving. Dr. Browning Neddeau will address this question and more.Learn more and register early. 

To learn more about diversity, equity, inclusion and justice at Oakland Community College and stay up to date with events throughout the year, visit OCC’s DEIJ website. 

About OCC   

Offering nearly 100 degrees and certificates, OCC is Michigan’s largest multi-campus community college and one of the top transfer institutions in the state. The College provides academic, career training and enriching experiences, designed to empower students to reach their potential and enhance our community. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. A seven-person Board of Trustees governs OCC. Board members are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis, serve as volunteers and are not paid. Mission statement: OCC is committed to empowering our students to succeed and advancing our community. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.   

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