FROM THE DIRECTOR


Renewal and Restoration A


s the third director of the National Museum of the American Indian,


I am energized by the responsibility of leading the museum and honored by the opportunity to make a signifi- cant impact well beyond its walls. My service to the museum as a curator, scholar and author spans three decades, and I embrace my new role in which I will continue to advocate for our col- laboration with Indigenous peoples and their allies. This Spring issue of American


Indian magazine speaks to renewal and restoration. It features articles about innovative tribal initiatives that are striving for healthy communities and ecosystems, which are critical to our collective future. For instance, Ameri- can Indian tribes are working to defend the rights of nature, a movement inher- ent to Indigenous cultures around the world (page 8). They are also grow- ing gardens that are nurturing Native communities while serving as teaching grounds for Indigenous language and culture (page 10). In addition, one article highlights the


efforts of a college student to use tech- nology to replenish dogbane, a plant that has been integral to the lives of her Nimíipuu people yet is now miss- ing from their Nez Perce Reservation in Idaho (page 12). Another story spot- lights projects across the country that are restoring wildlife to tribal lands, which is helping heal the environment and Native peoples (page 14). Tribes are also generating their own renewable energies, demonstrating that whether on a small or large scale, these efforts are making significant contributions to communities (page 24). These stories illustrate the value of upholding knowledge, which is


6 SPRING 2022 AMERICAN INDIAN


central to the museum’s core val- ues. I am deeply invested in the work that this museum has undertaken to amplify Indigenous voices and per- spectives worldwide. One such unique vision is that of groundbreaking Yanktonai Dakota art- ist Oscar Howe. We tell how he inspired a legacy of Indigenous artists and cre- ated captivating works that defied ste- reotypes of Native art—many which are now on display at an exciting new exhibition at our location in New York (page 32). The museum’s exhibitions, pro-


grams and collections provide countless opportunities for all ages to make last- ing connections with art and culture. I have witnessed the many ways the museum’s collection has brought forth memories, inspiration and knowledge to support the continuity of culture. In this issue, I am pleased to share a per- sonal story that shows just how family histories can be preserved—and dis- covered—in the museum’s remarkable collection. My husband, Walter Lamar (Blackfeet/Wichita), renewed his con- nection with his great-grandmother, who he hadn’t seen since he was a child, when he was able to see a cradleboard that she made (page 42). In all that we do at the National


Museum of the American Indian, we rely on our strong foundation of collab- oration and respect across cultures and generations. I am indebted to our former directors, senior leaders and trustees who have guided us through our forma- tive years with insight and clarity. We continue to be an exemplary museum because of the dedication of our staff and supporters, and I invite you to follow our latest initiatives through a visit online or in person.


cynthia chavez lamar (San Felipe Pueblo), Director, National Museum of the American Indian


I am energized by the responsibility of leading the museum and honored by the opportunity to make a significant impact well beyond its walls.


PHOTO BY WALTER LAMAR


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