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Discover indigenous languages, culture at University Evening

With many native languages nearing extinction, two University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point professors are showcasing the language and culture of two indigenous nations as part of the 11th annual University Evening.

The event will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Alumni Room of Dreyfus University Center. "Ojibway and Runasimi (Quechua) Languages, Songs and Dances: Survival of Indigenous Nations," will be presented by professors Sonny Smart, sociology and social work, and Elia Armacanqui-Tipacti, world languages and literatures.

University Evening is held annually to celebrate the creativity and scholarship of distinguished UW-Stevens Point faculty.

At this year's event, the faculty members will provide a short history of the Ojibway (North America) and Runasimi/Quechua (South America) languages, how each connects to native culture and how the languages have survived western influence. A demonstration of songs and dances will explore how languages and culture interact.

Smart is a member of the Band River Band of Chippewa of Wisconsin and was adopted into the Menominee tribe. He coordinated the Native American rural social work program and the Native American Family Institute at UW-Stevens Point. He teaches courses in Native American social work, child welfare and family interaction. He serves as a tribal judge and holds positions with the Ojibwa ceremonial Big Drum and Midewiwin medicine societies. He has been actively involved in powwows across the country for more than 40 years.

Armacanqui-Tipacti, a native of Peru, teaches Spanish at UW-Stevens Point and specializes in Latin American, medieval, Golden Age and colonial literature. Her books have been translated into several languages. She is a founder and active member of a group that aims to preserve the Runasimi/Quechua language. She received the UW System Women of Color Award in 2006 and 2013 and the UW-Stevens Point Scholar Award in 2013.

The event is offered to the public free of charge, with a reception to follow.


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