The University of New Mexico's Staff Council and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee hosts a discussion and book release featuring Lloyd Lee, in celebration of Native American Heritage Month.

Lee, who is faculty in the Native American Studies Program, will present his book “Native Americans at the University of New Mexico - Celebrating Native American Heritage Month” on Tuesday, Nov. 24, from 12 to 1 p.m. Click here for the Zoom link.

November is a time to celebrate and acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans and the rich heritage they bring to our communities. During this discussion, Lee will talk about the history of Native people at UNM and recognize the many contributions from Native staff, students and faculty.

Lee’s book offers “a perspective on the history of Native Americans at the University of New Mexico and the relationship this institution has with native peoples.”

For the past 500 years, Native Americans have faced many challenges, especially regarding their education. Lee’s book shows how young men and women have faced these challenges and never lost sight of the fundamental principles of what it means to be a person of indigenous decent.

“It is my hope that future Native American students’ parents and community members will learn from these experiences to help them tackle all of life's challenges,” said Lee.

As part of Native American Heritage Month in November, University Communication and Marketing is recognizing the contributions of the Native American community to The University of New Mexico, the state, and the nation through a series of stories highlighting those contributions.

Click here to read the first piece in the series, which explains the UNM Land Acknowledgment Statement and its origins. Continue to check news.unm.edu for more articles honoring Native American Heritage month throughout the month of November.