Welcoming New Board Members!
Greetings Museum Friends and Allies,
We are elated to announce four new voices here at the Museum of the American Indian. Each individual brings not only a wealth of experience but also a deep-rooted commitment to the preservation and celebration of Indigenous heritage and culture. Let us extend a heartfelt welcome to:
JuanCarlos Arauz, Ed.D.
Dr. JuanCarlos Arauz, the Founding Executive Director of E3: Education, Excellence & Equity, is a renowned educational expert known for his captivating presentations. With a doctorate in International and multicultural Education and a background as an immigrant, he offers invaluable insights into 21st-century education, immigration, and Black/Brown male youth development. Dr. Arauz honors his Indigenous, African, and European ancestors, drawing wisdom from their legacies. Featured in documentaries and acclaimed as a 'Spoken Word' storyteller, Dr. Arauz bridges the gap between private and public sectors to humanize education. His academic journey includes a BA and MA from the University of South Florida and an Ed.D. from the University of San Francisco. Dr. Arauz's multicultural background and extensive experience in teaching and coaching provide him with a unique perspective on contemporary educational challenges.
Jorge Eduardo Castillo Cabral
Jorge is honored to be a Board member of the Museum of the American Indian. Being a local resident he has witnessed the positive impact the museum has had on the community. Jorge has dedicated his professional life to social justice community organizing. He brings his experience in advocacy, public policy, public relations, and program management to the Board. He excels in coalition organizing and grassroots leadership training and development at the state and local levels. Jorge has a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Iowa as well as a Master’s Degree in Latin American Studies from UCLA. He is glad to call Novato his home and enjoys spending time with his family at the local parks and shops in the area.
Aaron Davis
Aaron is a Bay Area-based nonprofit professional with a focus on supporting small, community-based organizations that aim to have a big impact. Currently, he works at the Marin Community Foundation, supporting Bay Area donors in their philanthropic giving. Before MCF, Aaron worked at Year Up, Inc. as a fundraiser responsible for working with a portfolio of individual, corporate, and foundation donors. He is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and Certified Salesforce Administrator. Aaron is a first-generation college graduate, having completed a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies from the University of North Texas, with a focus in Anthropology, History, and Sustainable Development. He was born and raised in Austin, Texas, and grew up going to the Austin Powwow to watch his uncle compete as a Southern Straight Dancer.
Douglas Mundo
Douglas, the Founding Executive Director of the Multicultural Center of Marin, brings over 23 years of nonprofit leadership experience focused on community development. He is deeply involved in environmental justice initiatives and excels in community organizing. At the Multicultural Center of Marin, Douglas spearheaded programs that empower diverse immigrant and underserved communities in Marin County, promoting social, cultural, and economic well-being through civic engagement. Additionally, he co-directed Shore Up Marin, a coalition advocating for equitable sea level rise adaptation and emergency response. Douglas, a graduate of the University of San Francisco with a bachelor's in public administration, tirelessly advocates for immigrant and Indigenous communities, aiming to ensure their voices are heard and included.
We offer our deepest gratitude to these remarkable individuals for answering the call to serve on our board, and we eagerly anticipate the wisdom and guidance they will share.
We also wish to honor and express our deepest gratitude to our long time board members; Angela Olmanson and Kirk Hylan for their unwavering commitment and guidance. Their wisdom and dedication have been the guiding stars illuminating our journey, and we are profoundly grateful for their continued leadership.
Grand Re-Opening - April 27th!
As the seasons shift and the earth awakens, we are thrilled to announce the Grand Re-Opening of the Museum of the American Indian! Following months of intentional renewal and revitalization, we invite you to join us in celebrating the resilience and vibrancy of Indigenous cultures.
On Saturday, April 27th, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. join us for a day of ceremony, storytelling, and cultural exchange. Experience special exhibitions honoring the Coast Miwok, past, present and future, and learn about our national animal, the Buffalo, and celebrate Indigenous traditions..
Stay tuned for more details on our Grand Re-Opening celebration in next month’s newsletter, and mark your calendars to stand in solidarity with Indigenous peoples as we continue our journey of cultural resurgence and healing.
Celebrating Indigenous Women
Sally Sherlock
In alignment with the 2024 national theme, "Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion," we uplift the voices and achievements of Indigenous women who have fearlessly championed these values.
Among these trailblazers is LaDonna Harris, a Comanche activist and civil rights leader whose legacy spans decades of tireless advocacy for Native American rights and environmental justice.
We also honor Deb Haaland, the first Native American woman to serve as a U.S. Secretary of the Interior, whose leadership embodies resilience and dedication to protecting our planet and its people.
In our tribute, we cannot overlook Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, whose visionary leadership transformed her community and inspired countless others.
These women, and countless others, have left an indelible mark on history through their courage, resilience, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Let us continue to draw inspiration from their legacies as we work towards a more just and inclusive society.
Books by Indigenous women:
Films to Watch:
Medicine Woman (2016)
Delving into the essence of healing a community, "Medicine Woman" is a poignant PBS documentary intertwining the narratives of modern-day Native healers with that of the pioneering Susan La Flesche Picotte, the first Native American doctor. Born in 1865 on the Nebraska frontier, Picotte defied societal norms by pursuing medicine, graduating at the top of her class in Philadelphia. Returning home, she dedicated her life to restoring her community's well-being, leaving an enduring legacy of resilience and compassion.
LaDonna Harris: Indian 101
Explore the journey of activist LaDonna Harris, a member of the Comanche Nation, renowned for her pivotal role in advancing Indigenous rights. The documentary highlights her instrumental efforts in shaping landmark programs and legislation, addressing crucial issues such as tribal land claims, education, healthcare, women's job discrimination, and environmental protections for tribes. Harris's tireless advocacy has not only strengthened and revitalized Indigenous communities but has also empowered emerging Native leaders globally.
Bring Her Home
"BRING HER HOME" shadows three Indigenous women—an artist, an activist, and a politician—unyielding in their quest to seek justice and honor their kin, victims of the escalating crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Wrestling with the enduring wounds of historical trauma, each woman embarks on a journey of healing amidst the oppressive systems responsible for perpetuating this crisis.
Without a Whisper – KONNÓN:KWE
Delve into the overlooked narrative of Indigenous women's pivotal role in shaping the early suffragist movement for freedom and equality. Mohawk Clan Mother Louise Herne and Professor Sally Roesch Wagner collaborate to challenge the conventional history of the women's rights movement in the United States. Together, they embark on a transformative journey to uncover the hidden influence of Haudenosaunee Women, potentially reshaping the historical narrative forever.
A Heartfelt Note of Gratitude
As we pause to reflect on the invaluable contributions that each of you has made to our museum, we are filled with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to fulfill our mission of preserving and celebrating the rich tapestry of Indigenous heritage and culture.
Your generosity has not only provided crucial financial support but has also served as a source of inspiration and encouragement for our entire team. It is because of your belief in our vision that we are able to continue offering transformative educational programs, engaging exhibitions, and impactful community initiatives.
Every donation, large or small, represents a profound commitment to the preservation and promotion of Indigenous history and traditions. Your dedication ensures that our museum remains a vibrant hub of cultural exchange and understanding, enriching the lives of countless visitors from around the world.
As we express our gratitude, we also reaffirm our commitment to stewarding your contributions responsibly and transparently. Your trust in us is a responsibility we hold dear, and we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in all that we do.
In the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose, we look forward to continuing our journey together, as partners in preserving and celebrating the diverse heritage of Indigenous peoples. Your support fuels our passion and strengthens our resolve to make a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
Once again, from the depths of our hearts, thank you for your unwavering generosity and steadfast belief in the mission of our museum. Together, we are creating a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
With sincerest gratitude,
Dean Hoaglin, Tamal'ko Coast Miwok
President and Chair of the Board of Directors
Museum of the American Indian
2200 Novato Blvd.
Novato, CA 94947
415-897-4064