Native American Heritage Month
2025 Calendar of Events
November is Native American Heritage Month — a time for the Baylor community to honor, celebrate, and learn from the vibrant histories, cultures, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. This month offers an opportunity to reflect on Baylor’s own history and its connection to the land and peoples who have long called Central Texas home. Baylor University stands on the traditional homelands of several tribes, including the Waco (Hueco), Tawakoni, Tonkawa, Comanche, and Lipan Apache peoples. As we recognize this heritage, we commit ourselves to fostering understanding, respect, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities both past and present.
Throughout the month, Multicultural Affairs invites students, faculty, and staff to join in events and conversations that celebrate Native resilience, creativity, and leadership. We draw inspiration from influential Native American figures such as Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation; Dr. Henrietta Mann, a trailblazing scholar in Native education; and Jim Thorpe, one of the greatest athletes in history and a member of the Sac and Fox Nation. Their legacies remind us of the enduring power of Native voices and their impact across every field of life. From storytelling and art showcases to community discussions and cultural spotlights, Native American Heritage Month at Baylor is a time to celebrate the strength and spirit that continue to shape our shared story — Sic ’Em Bears and Sic ’Em Nations! The events below are open to all students and we encourage you to attend as many as you can. To learn how to participate, contact us at multicultural_affairs@baylor.edu.
November 1st - Native Bears |
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Tune in on all Instagram accounts - @baylorMA1845 and @baylorma_cubtalk as we kick off Native American Heritage Month 2025 |
November 5th - Celebrate Native American Heritage with Indigenous ACE |
Location: Mayborn Museum Complex Time: 11:00am Join us for an encore performance by Indigenous ACE (Arts, Culture, and Education), from the Indigenous Cultures Institute in San Antonio features traditional dancers, musicians, and singers plus explanations of traditions. This group includes men, women, and children. This organization is made up of close family and friends that represent several tribes (Saponi, Comanche, Apache, Alabama-Coushatta, Chickasaw, Navajo, Wastec) |
November 11th - Native Voices (with SACNAS) |
Location: Bennett Auditorium Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm Join SACNAS for an evening of culture, stories, and community. Great Promise Dancers - Live Demonstration. Indigenous Scholar Derek Ross. Cha Community Drinks with Native Texas Flavors. |
November 12th - Native Flute Performance & Discussion with Tim Nevaquaya |
Location: Mayborn Museum Complex Time: 11:00am Join Comanche artist and flute maker Tim Nevaquaya for a performance and conversation on Native art, music, and cultural traditions. |
November 13th - Native American Heritage Month with Celebrity Chef Reb Mariposa (Founder and Owner of La Botanica in San Antonio, TX) |
Location: Penland Time: 11:00am - 2:00pm Get ready for a dining experience you won’t want to miss! Baylor Eats is bringing the flavors, stories, and traditions of Native American cuisine to the table with Celebrity Chef Reb Mariposa, in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. Join us in the dining hall for a meal that honors the rich history and vibrant culinary traditions of Indigenous communities. The menu features Ground Bison Chili, Blue Cornbread, Three Sisters Succotash, Wild Rice Salad, and Cranberry Relish—a delicious blend of flavors that pay tribute to the ingredients and techniques that have nourished generations. This isn’t just another meal—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection. Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy a taste of heritage as Baylor Eats celebrates Native American Heritage Month with Chef Reb Mariposa! |
November 17th - Land, Legacy, and Learning: Native Voices and Visibility - Lunch and Learn with Guest Speaker Derek Ross |
Location: Moody 104 Time: 12 noon to 1:00pm Explore how communities are thriving today in art, education, politics, and activism, challenging outdated stereotypes and celebrating modern Native identity. |
November 18th - Neighbor Nights with SACNAS |
Location: Bobo Spiritual Life Center Time: 6:00pm Join us for Neighbor Night as we celebrate Native American Heritage Month with our friends from SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science)! This special evening is all about community, connection, and culture. Come enjoy free food, great conversation, and an opportunity to learn more about the rich traditions, stories, and ongoing contributions of Native American communities—both at Baylor and beyond. Whether you’re coming to be educated, to build relationships, or just to enjoy good company and good food, Neighbor Night is the perfect space to do it. Bring your friends, your curiosity, and your appetite—because this is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of culture and community. |
November 19th - Rhythm and Breeze |
Location: Mayborn Museum Complex Time: 11:00am Enjoy a peaceful Native flute performance in the Mayborn's rotunda. |