MARQUETTE, Mich.—November is Native American Heritage Month and the Center for Native American Studies at Northern Michigan University is hosting several events and activities to celebrate. All of the following are open to the public and free, unless otherwise indicated.

            The film, “Alcatraz is Not an Island,” will be showing for free at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 5, in Jamrich 105. This documentary is about the occupation of Alcatraz Island by Native American activists from 1969 until 1971.

            Motivational speaker DJ Eagle Bear Vanas will give a public presentation at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9. Titled “The Little Warrior Within,” Vanas will talk about his personal experiences growing up and overcoming various challenges throughout his life.

            NMU political science professor Ruth Watry will give present “Native American Citizenship Experience” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, in the Whitman Hall Commons. Her talk is sponsored by the League of Women Voters.

            The “First Nations Food Taster,” offering traditional and contemporary fare, will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, in the Jacobetti Center. There will be wild game, Three Sisters casserole, wild rice, fry bread and desserts. Entertainment will be provided by Elda Tate on Native American flute. Advanced ticket prices until Thursday, Nov. 12, are $4 for NMU students with an ID and children under 12 and $10 for the general public. Ticket prices for Friday, Nov. 13 are $5 for NMU students and children under 12 and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available at 112 Whitman Hall or 3001 Hedgcock.

            There will be a free cultural sensitivity program with Richie Plass from Green Bay, Wis., at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in 101 Jamrich.

            The film “Whale Rider” will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, in Jamrich 105. This film is about a young Maori girl fighting to fulfill her destiny.

            For more information, contact the Center for Native American Studies at 227-1397.