American Indian Culture Celebrated at Annual Big Time Event

Humboldt State University will host the 8th annual California Big Time & Social Gathering on Saturday, April 4, 10:30 to 7 p.m. in the West Gym. The event is free and open to the community.

The public celebration of American Indian culture includes multiple song and dance performances, American Indian regalia, an Indian Card Game Tournament, and an “Amazing Race,” a competitive tour that introduces college-bound youngsters to the HSU campus.

Founded on the principles of enhancing and sustaining Native languages, cultures, and traditions, HSU’s Big Time has provided our Native communities with a space to honor the ways of life and the values of our ancestors.

This year’s dances groups include Tolowa Nation Dancers, Point Arena Manchester Coastal Pomo Dancers, Maidu Traditionalists, HSU’s Danza Azteca, and much, much more.

Artists and vendors will also be on hand, as well as food booths, including Indian Tacos.

The 2015 HSU Big Time is anticipated to gather around 1,200 people plus about 70 businesses, services, and non-profits for sharing and learning about ceremonial dances, regalia, songs, history, and traditions.

This event is hosted by the university’s Council of American Indian Faculty and Staff (CAIFS), Native American Center for Academic Excellence, Indian Tribal & Educational Personnel Program (ITEPP), Native American Studies, Indigenous Peoples Student Alliance, and the MultiCultural Center, among others.

Disability access and shuttle maps are available at the MultiCultural Center at (707) 826.3364 or mcc@humboldt.edu. For more information, contact Mona Mazzotti at (707)826.3369 or mona.mazzotti@humboldt.edu.