CWU to host bestselling Native author for Native American Heritage Month

CWU will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a special presentation by Matika Wilbur, a critically acclaimed social documentarian who belongs to the Swinomish and Tulalip peoples.

Wilbur's talk, “Changing the Way We See Native America: Dismantling Native American Stereotypes,” will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, in the SURC Ballroom.

The event is free and open to the public, though tickets are highly recommended in order to secure a seat. Tickets are available online.

Wilbur's work explores Indigeneity through various mediums, including photography, film, audio journalism, and public presentations. Her book, Project 562: Changing The Way We See Native America, became a New York Times Bestseller and was longlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal in 2023.

Wilbur currently hosts the podcast “All My Relations,” which invites guests to discuss topics facing Native peoples and explores the connections between land, creatural relatives, and one another. She is the CEO of Tidelands, an art center in downtown Seattle that produces contemporary Indigenous media, exhibits Native American art, and provides economic opportunity to Native artists.

In addition to Wilbur’s presentation, the November 19 event will feature a display of her photography, as well as a reception and book signing. Copies of Project 562 and select merchandise will also be available for purchase.

This event is made possible through support from the CWU Presidential Speaker Series Endowment, the Division of Student Engagement and Success, ASCWU, and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity.

For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, email Disability Services at DS@cwu.edu.