Free Library Events Celebrate Native American and Military Heritage in November

The Montgomery County Public Libraries system will host special events at the Rockville and Silver Spring branches in November to honor Native American Heritage Month and Military Family Month.

The Rockville Memorial Library will host a musical storytelling program on November 14 featuring Mwalim “DaPhunkee Professor” Peters, appearing as part of the MCPL’s “Contemporary Conversations” programming series. He will present a musical storytelling experience highlighting the cultural connections between African and First Nations peoples, which are foundational to American culture.

Mr. Peters is a founding member of his tribe’s Educational Department and a tenured associate professor at UMass Dartmouth, recognized for his contributions to oral traditions in music, literature, and theater.

Additionally, the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library in downtown Silver Spring will discuss Native American military service on November 20. The “Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces” program will feature Alexandra N. Harris, senior editor at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, who will discuss her book on the significant contributions of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians in the U.S. military.

“November offers us the opportunity to reflect on the rich heritage and contributions of Native Americans, as well as the sacrifices made by military families,” County Executive Marc Elrich said in a press release. “These events offer a space for meaningful conversations and learning, from exploring the deep cultural ties between African and First Nations people to honoring the legacy of Native Americans in our armed forces. They remind us of our shared history and the diverse threads that strengthen our community, and I encourage everyone to attend.”

Both programs are free to attend, but registration is required. Visit the Montgomery County Public Libraries website at montgomerycountymd.gov/library for more information and to register.