#NativeNationsInLA

Photo Exhibit at LA City Hall:

November marks Native American Heritage Month, and in alignment with Los Angeles’ commitment to celebrating the cultural diversity within LA County, numerous events are scheduled this month to honor the rich Native American heritage integral to the fabric of Los Angeles. We invite you to explore the exhibition at the DCA’s Henry P. Rio Bridge Gallery located in City Hall, which will be open from November 1 to December 1, 2024. This exhibition features artwork from over 17 Native American artists and is curated by Dawn Jackson (Saginaw Chippewas) and supported by the 2024 Native American Heritage Month Chair, Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, the Los Angeles City Council, and the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA). Among the showcased works, Navajo multimedia artist Pamela J. Peters presents ten canvas pieces that reflect the diverse tribal communities in Los Angeles, as part of her ongoing project, “Native Nations in LA.” 

This initiative highlights portraits of Native tribal members proudly displaying their tribal flags, emphasizing their cultural heritage and presence in a city that often overlooks the diversity of Native tribal communities and contributions. Beyond simply showcasing tribal pride, Peters’ project offers participants a platform to articulate the importance of “Tribal Nation flags” as symbols of sovereignty. By illuminating these often-neglected Native American narratives within urban environments, Peters’ project seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the local tribal, cultural, and historical dimensions of Native American communities in Los Angeles County.

Additionally, starting on November 18th and running through December 18th, artist Peters will display 10 billboards throughout Los Angeles County. Her commitment is to provide Angelenos with a comprehensive perspective on the diverse tribal communities through visual images. The stories shared by these Native individuals have shed light on the complexities of their experiences as native living in Los Angeles County, yet it also celebrates their rich cultures of the diversity of tribal nations still existing in Los Angeles County. It is crucial to continue engaging with and listening to the voices of Native communities in order to honor their past, acknowledge their present realities, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all folks to understand the diversity of tribal nations in Los Angeles. 

Native Nations is part of the CA Creative Corps, which is generously supported by the California Arts Council and administered by Community Partners as part of artist fellowship commitment. 

More Details on Native Nations in LA Exhibit: (link)