Cultural Education

Historically, U.S. government forces have made it embarrassingly easy for citizens to remain ignorant of American Indian culture. The extreme poverty and violence that tend to be associated with Indian reservations emphasize the lingering cultural divide. But events such as this weekend's Kansas City Indian Art Market and Cultural Festival are reminders of progress. For four years running, the Kansas City, Missouri, Parks and Recreation Department and the National Center for Indigenous American Cultures have presented this celebration of Native American food, music, dance, art and education. Taste fry bread, take in the rhythm of a drum circle, purchase some handmade leather crafts and listen to the stories. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Sunday at Line Creek Community Center (5940 Northwest Waukomis Drive). Admission costs $2. Kids under 13 get in free, and there's no charge to park. Call 816-513-0760 for more information.
Sat., Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 2009