Occidental’s Community Book Program offers a full year of programming that engages with themes from this year’s community book selection, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Exploring the role of indigenous knowledge as an alternative or complementary approach to Western mainstream scientific methodologies, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants is the 2023-24 community book selection written by Potawatomi professor Robin Wall Kimmerer.
The Community Book Program (CBP) supports the mission of Occidental College by creating opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents to experience the joy of reading and learning together. Through thoughtful selection of book titles and innovative and inspiring programs, the CBP provides an intellectually engaging and rewarding experience for the entire Oxy community.
On Saturday, October 14, Professors Gretchen North and Jocelyn Pedersen will lead a native plant walk on campus, the first of four interactive workshops presented in partnership with OXY ARTS. Participants in the second part of the workshop will create inks and dyes using these species in the Lowercase Printshop. Reserve your spot.
On Friday, October 20, there will be a tour of Occidental’s letterpress studio, run by Pedersen. Attendees will be able to create their own unique print featuring a quote from Braiding Sweetgrass. This event is part of Homecoming and Family Weekend; registration closes October 7.
On Thursday, October 26, a panel event titled "Responsibility and Reciprocal Relationships with the Land: Indigenous Knowledge, Conservation, and Land Return" will take place. The event features a host of experts curated by Celestina Castillo, executive director of the Center for Community Based Learning, and North. Register for this free event.
Through November 18, engage with indigenous art and making during Oxy Arts’ fall group exhibition The Iridescence of Knowing, which explores the rich lineage of indigenous cultural production in Tovaangar, known today as the greater Los Angeles basin. Oxy Arts' open gallery hours are listed on their website.
On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, all community members are invited to a virtual author talk with Kimmerer and President Harry J. Elam, Jr. Registration details to come.
