The One Book Project opened its doors for the Native Cultural Showcase at the Beale Library and Auditorium on Oct. 25. This cultural event took place between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The One Book Project is a countywide reading and discussion program put together by the Kern County Library, who partnered with the Arts Council of Kern’s Common Ground Program and California Arts Council to make this exhibition happen.
The highlight of this years One Book selection is: “Whiskey Tender,” by author Deborah Jackson Taffa. The book is a memoir about reclaiming indigenous values and overturning negative stereotyping. It is available to check out in the Kern County Library.
The Arts Council of Kern, which were represented, allowed people with questions to learn more about its mission to provide arts education, access, and advocacy to all Kern County residents. Common Ground is a grant funded “first people’s” art workshops, celebrations and exhibitions to deepen community arts education. For those looking for some activities, The Bakersfield American Indian Health Project, has several weekly activities. The schedules can be found on its Instagram account, @baihp or FaceBook page, TheBAIHP.
The elaborate library setting displayed many unique craft and handcrafted indigenous clothes, including painted artifacts and knick knacks. Lori Myers, an Alaskan and Tlingit Indian, offered an opportunity for bead making. Another where you could make Yaqui flowers out of colored tissues. Anissa Robidoux, from the Native Indigenous Student Coalition, represented her table with elaborate art pieces, pottery, and dreamcatchers.
When questioned about the event, Sean Naveaz, a member of the Arts Council remarked, “ I’m so thankful for the opportunities I have been given through the Arts Council, and the ability to show Indian Culture through this event.”
The main attraction for this event was guest speaker, Gene Albitre, who presented a small presentation in the auditorium on the significant role animals play in the survival of Native Americans. On the stage were several rawhide artifacts.The presentation was moderated by KGET’s very own, Rick Bentley. After the presentation there was a Q&A.