American Indian Festival of Words

2024 Circle of Honor Award Presentation

Honoree: CDR John Herrington, PhD

Saturday, March 2

10:30 a.m.

Central Library, 1st floor

Free and Open to the Public!

Inaugurated in 2004, the Circle of Honor Award honors an American Indian for their lifetime achievements and contributions that have enriched the lives of others. Induction into the Circle of Honor is a celebration of the honoree’s actions in the face of adversity, commitment to the preservation of American Indian culture and legacy for future generations. The award is given in even-numbered years. The John Herrington, Chickasaw, was the first citizen of a federally recognized tribe to travel to space. He also holds a doctorate in Education.

Family Fun with Tulsa Air and Space Museum 

Saturday, March 2

9:00a.m. – 10:30a.m.

Central Library, Children’s Department

Kids come and have fun in the Children's Department with the Tulsa Air and Space Museum! 

Take and Make: 3D Turtle Kits

March 4-30 or as long as kits last!

Nathan Hale Library

The turtle bounces! The turtle can stick its head in and out of its shell! Enjoy a creative 3D Maker Space AIRC turtle craft kit. Stop by and pick one up from March 4-30 or as long as kits last!

Plains Indian Sign Language 

Mike Pahsetopah

YouTube

Learn the seasonal signs of spring from fifth-generation signer Mike Pahsetopah. View on the library's YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/tulsalibrary.

Fancy Dancing with Michael Loman 

Saturday, March 16

2:00 – 3:00PM

Kendall-Whittier Library, 21 S. Lewis

Come and enjoy traditional dance exhibitions highlighting the Fancy Dance, Hoop Dance, and Eagle Dance from various tribes. You will hear flute music, stories, and learn about the native culture.

Fik Sum Kee: Native American stories of high adventure! 

Monday, March 18

10:30-11:30AM

Broken Arrow Library, 300 W. Broadway Ave.

Join Native America’s greatest raconteur, Will Hill, for exciting adventure tales. You will hear the heroic story of “Clam Shell Boy!” and many more. You will enjoy hearing the melodic music of the American Indian flute, turtle shell rattle and Buffalo hide drum. Lots of audience participation and laughs. Don't miss the action-packed program!

Come and learn about Butterfly Gardens!

Tuesday, March 19

2:00-3:00PM

South Broken Arrow Library, 3600 S. Chestnut

This program is presented by the Euchee Butterfly Farm and the Tribal Alliance for Pollinators. 

Make and Take: Cherokee Pottery 

Wednesday, March 20

1:00-2:00PM 

Kishner Library, 10150 N. Cincinnati E. 

Join Cherokee potter Crystal Hanna for native stories and a hands-on workshop. Materials provided. Class size is limited. Registration is required. Please call 918-549-7323 to reserve your spot.

Traditional American Indian Dance Exhibition: Presented by Tulsa Indian Club

Thursday, March 21

11:00AM-12:00PM

Schusterman-Benson Library, 3333 E. 32nd Pl.

The Tulsa Indian Club will perform spectacular American Indian dances from various tribal nations. This entertaining and educational performance will include specialty, traditional and social dances. Audience participation is encouraged.

Make and Take: Native Patchwork

Saturday, March 23

1:00-3:00PM

Glenpool Library, 730 E. 141st St.

Come and learn the basics for Native American patchwork. Ten (10) sewing machines are provided or you may bring your own. Materials provided to the first 20 people.

Native Stickball Throw Around with the SUN CHIEFS

Thursday, March 28

4:00-6:00PM

Jenks Library, 523 W. “B” St.

Learn about the ancient game of stickball that native people used to settle challenges. Audience participation is encouraged. 

Sponsors:

American Indian Resource Center

Tulsa Library Trust

Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation

Additional Support:

Draughon Trust

Southwest Trading Company

Tulsa Air and Space Museum

Vision and Voices