Native American Cultural Celebration 2026

Join the Native American Student Association and the James Farmer Multicultural Center, as we continue to determine our birthrights and the path towards authentic sovereignty.

Kick-Off Celebration

Monday, November 9 | TBD | TBD

Join us for an exciting kick-off event and meet the Native American Student Association Executive Board and learn what NASA has to offer. We cannot wait to see you there!

Native American Cultural Dinner

Tuesday, November 10 | 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Restaurants at the Top of the CRUC, Cedric Rucker University Center

Cost with Campus Meal Plan: 1 meal swipe or $15.27 flex. The cost for EagleOne or credit card is $17.64, plus tax, and $5.24 plus tax for children ages 4 – 10. The cost for UMW faculty/staff is $7.57.

Co-sponsored by University Dining

University Dining, in partnership with the Native American Student Association (NASA), is hosting a special, premium dinner to celebrate the vast array of Native American dishes. The menu will include dishes from many Native American tribes ranging from the Southwest to the Northeast. Guests will also have an opportunity to talk with members of NASA about Native American cultures and the special events they have planned for the Native American Cultural Celebration.


Educational Program-TBD

Wednesday, November 11 | 6:00 p.m. | Colonnade Room, Cedric Rucker University Center

Co-Sponsored by the James Monroe Museum

This historical program examines early 19th-century U.S. expansionist policy through the lens of the Monroe Doctrine’s lesser-known role in limiting Indigenous sovereignty and curbing European influence over tribal nations. It explores how Indigenous communities were viewed as both political obstacles and strategic concerns within the expanding American republic.

Native American Cultural Celebration Major Speaker:
Edward Keith Colston

Thursday, November 12 | 7:00 p.m. | Weatherly Wing, Seacobeck Hall

Edward Keith Colston is a Southern Band Tuscarora and enrolled member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. His clan is Rawkwiss (Turtle). He serves as a cultural consultant representing Native Americans/American Indians/Indigenous Peoples. As a visual performance artist, Mr. Colston initiates a wide range of activities that promote tribal people and cultural awareness. Through a cultural viewpoint, Native American history and perspectives are given a better understanding.

All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.  For more information, please contact the James Farmer Multicultural Center at (540) 654-1044 or visit the James Farmer Multicultural Center website. Please email us at jfmc@umw.edu if you have any questions regarding disability-related accommodations.