During the month of March, the West Fargo Public Library is hosting programs that celebrate the culture, history and art of Indigenous people. 

“It is important to us to offer events and services that celebrate the diverse backgrounds found in our community,” Adult Services Manager Kirsten Henagin said. “This winter, we are exploring Indigenous culture and history.”  

On Saturday, Feb. 5, Christy Goulet, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, led a class about Indigenous winter medicines in partnership with Cultural Diversity Resources.  

Goulet will be back at the library March 19 to host “Storytelling with Ojibwe and Lakota Elders.” During this community conversation, Ojibwe and Lakota elders will share stories about their personal experiences, diverse upbringings, tribal history and contemporary living. 

Beginning March 1, the library will display a group art exhibit curated by Laura Youngbird, which also shines a light on Indigenous culture and history. Each artist featured was assigned a piece from Joy Harjo’s “An American Sunrise” to bring to life through their artistry. “An American Sunrise” is a National Endowment for the Arts Big Read that discusses the Trail of Tears, Harjo’s personal and ancestral history, and other topics through poems, prose, lyrics and quotes from outside sources. The nationally curated exhibit will be on display at the library March 1 through 28. 

“One of our goals is to offer diverse resources so anyone who steps foot in the library can find materials or participate in events that they see themselves represented in,” Henagin said. “It is also important and fun to learn about cultures different from your own!” 

Find the West Fargo Public Library’s full calendar of events at westfargolibrary.org.