THE HISTORY OF FLAMENCO
Presented by Nicolasa Chávez
This presentation traces the history of Flamenco in music and song. The presentation begins with flamenco’s origins in Medieval Spain through the present, concentrating on its arrival in the US and New Mexico. Nicolasa and her accompanist will share the history and meaning behind the music and songs along with personal stories as flamenco performers in New Mexico.
MIGUEL TRUJILLO, NEW MEXICO’S UNKNOWN CIVIL RIGHTS HERO
Presented by Gordon Bronitsky
In 1948, Miguel Trujillo, a WWII Marine veteran from Laguna, sued New Mexico and obtained the right to vote for Native Americans of the state. This presentation tells his story. The presentation encourages an understanding of the background for voting rights in New Mexico 1912, and encourages people to think beyond the Three Peoples myth to the reality of the struggle that began with the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 and continues today.
*PAST* FESTIVAL SEFARDÍ
May 16th – 18th
Most events are FREE, donations optional. Luncheon is $20, Concert is $20 in advance or $25 at door.
Festival Sefardí, New Mexico’s only annual celebration of the unique history and culture of the Sephardic Jews in the Southwest, enters its 16th year with a focus on the Indigenous experience in relation to early settler Jewish history in New Mexico and its continued impact on contemporary society. The festival will feature music, dance, poetry, art, workshops, delicious food, and talks by scholars, diving into the complex intercultural dynamics that continue to weave the fabric of New Mexico’s cultural tapestry.
The descendants of Jews who arrived in New Mexico in the late 16th century fleeing the Spanish Inquisition—known today as the “Conversos,” “Anusim,” “crypto-Jews,” or “Hidden Jews”—constitute a significant but often overlooked portion of New Mexico’s Hispanic population. Over the course of the festival, an extraordinary group of artists and scholars will help illuminate this profound history and identity that is part of New Mexico’s multicultural fabric.
The festival will begin with an exhibit opening and gallery talk. Please visit Congregation Nahalat Shalom’s website for the full festival schedule.
*PAST* THE IMPACTS OF HOUSING AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROJECTS ON INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES
May 10th, 11am – 1pm
Event attendance included with museum admission
This compelling conversation will explore how housing development and historic preservation intersect in Indigenous communities— often with complex and far-reaching consequences. Speakers Garron Yepa (Diné/Jemez Pueblo) and Miriam Diddy (Diné/Hopi) bring professional expertise and lived experience to a dialogue on how preservation efforts, when led without community input, can disrupt traditional lifeways or displace Native residents. At the same time, the session will highlight how Native-led planning, policy, and design can turn these projects into opportunities for cultural renewal and intergenerational connection. Drawing from work in tribal housing, federal preservation policy, and community development, the speakers will reflect on models that center Indigenous values, land stewardship, and architectural sovereignty. Attendees will gain insight into both the challenges and the promise of preservation in Native contexts, including how built environments reflect evolving identities and living traditions.
*PAST* INDIGENOUS WAYS FILM FESTIVAL 2025: HONORING STORY
May 2nd, 6pm – 9pm
May 3rd, 11am – 9pm
May 4th, 11am – 5pm
Behold the power of Indigenous cinema! The mother voyage of the Indigenous Ways Film Festival is set to transform the landscape of Native American Film. People storytelling, offering a groundbreaking platform for Indigenous filmmakers to share their perspectives and creative visions. Witness a curated collection of Indigenous trailblazing and creatively disruptive documentaries, feature-length movies, and compelling film shorts. Special emphasis is on films created by rising Indigenous voices that include Native American women, Deaf and student filmmakers. Engage with panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities! The Indigenous Ways Film festival goes beyond traditional film screenings, creating a comprehensive cross-cultural experience that honors Indigenous “ways of knowing”, provides a platform for emerging Native talent, and fosters creative collaboration and community connection.
The Indigenous Ways Film Festival offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to expand your understanding and appreciation of Native American Indigenous cinematic arts. Check the official Indigenous Ways Film Festival website for the most up-to-date information.
Admission is free but early registration is encouraged. ASL access.