Library exhibit traces role of Native American women

Kyrene Corridor residents interested in learning more about the contributions of Native American women to today’s society won’t want to miss a special exhibition now through Aug. 10 on the second floor of the Tempe Public Library, Rural Road and Southern Avenue.

The exhibition, Native Women of Hope, reflects the strength, beauty and poetry of Native American Women. The women were selected by a panel of Native American scholars and community members for their courage, compassion and contribution as Native American people.

This photographic series of Native women provides insight into those who have played major roles in social and political change in government, law, literature, the arts, medicine and science.

Their commonalties include an unwavering commitment and dedication to the struggle of their people to survive and flourish as distinct cultures.

This traveling exhibition will inspire people, regardless of race, creed or color.

Hulleah J. Tsinhnahjinnie, a Navajo photographer originally from Arizona, spent 18 months traveling across the country photographing and learning about the lives of these women.

The city of Tempe Cultural Services Department worked with Atlatl, Inc., 25-year-old National Service Organization for Native American Arts based in Phoenix, to bring the exhibition to Tempe.

“Through our arts programming, we serve as an advocate to educate the community and to promote Native arts education from the Native perspective,” said Maria Dadgar, executive director of Atlatl.

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