FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ginny Underwood
Marketing and Communications Manager
ginnyu@famok.org
405.229.7210
First Americans Museum future home for the National Native American Hall of Fame
OKLAHOMA CITY (February 19, 2021) – The First Americans Museum has agreed to collaborate on the development of a permanent home for the National Native American Hall of Fame, currently located in Great Falls, Montana. Both organizations share common goals to advance knowledge and understanding of First Americans and their contributions to the world.
“When FAM launches September 18, 2021, it will be a premier cultural center dedicated to increasing accurate and positive representations of First Americans and dispelling stereotypes and false narratives,” said James Pepper Henry, member of the Kaw Nation and FAM director/CEO. “Expanding and building a space for the National Native American Hall of Fame in collaboration with FAM strengthens our capacity to reach more people.”
FAM is located in Oklahoma City at the crossroads of Interstates 35, 40, 235 and 44. Under the agreement, both entities will remain independent but collaborate on space, fundraising and programming when appropriate.
James Parker Shield, chief executive officer and founder of the National Native American Hall of Fame said, “Joining hands with the First Americans Museum is a natural marriage of our organizations given our shared commitment to advancing the contemporary and historic achievements of Native people. We look forward to working together to build a home for the honored, treasured, and recognized Native Hall of Famers.”
The NNAHOF focuses on identifying and honoring Native American pathmakers and heroes from the Civil War period up until present day. Inductees include actor Wes Studi, advocate Elouise Cobell, author Vine Deloria, Jr., and Wilma Mankiller, former principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. The 2021 induction ceremonies will take place on November 6th at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City.
FAM’s mission is to educate the broader public about the unique cultures, diversity, history, and contributions of the 39 tribal nations in Oklahoma today. The 175,000 square foot facility will showcase state-of-the-art exhibitions in history, culture, and art; live public and education programs; a children’s discovery center with immersive family-friendly activities; a full-service restaurant presenting unique Native inspired cuisine; and a museum shop featuring one-of-a-kind hand-made items created by Oklahoma’s premier Native American artists.
659 First Americans Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK 73129-6100
405.594.2100
info@FAMok.org
FAMok.org
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View the FAM Press Release at the URL = https://nativehalloffame.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/FAM-NNAHOF-Press-Release-February-19-2021.pdf