An Institute of Museum and Library Services 2016 National Medal winner, Tomaquag Museum is Rhode Island’s only museum led by, and entirely dedicated to telling the story of, Indigenous people. It has a unique collection of thousands of cultural objects along with hundreds of thousands of pieces of archival materials focusing on the Indigenous peoples of Southern New England and highlighting the federally recognized Narragansett Tribe. The Museum’s mission is to educate the public and promote thoughtful dialogue regarding Indigenous history, culture, arts, and Mother Earth and connect to Native issues of today. The Museum envisions its future as an Indigenous Cultural Education destination that engages visitors in thoughtful dialogue that promotes understanding and strives to create experiences that transform people’s lives by broadening their perspectives, attitudes, and knowledge of Indigenous Cultures and the interrelationship with the wider world. Their unique educational programs include specialized tours, offsite programs, lectures, presentations, educator training, professional development, conferences, books, curricula, and more which bring traditional arts, culture, and history to the public.
At a glance:
- Resource Type: Consulting Resources, Education Materials & Resources, Field Trips, Outreach Programs/Speakers, Professional Development, Public and/or Family Programs, Service-Learning Projects
- Audiences: Adults, College/University Students, Early Childhood/Pre-K Students, Elementary (K-Grade 5) Students, Environmental Professionals, Families, High School (Grades 9-12) Students, Homeschools, Middle School (Grades 6-8) Students, Nonformal Educators, Parents, Policy Makers/Elected Officials, Public and/or Private Schools, Seniors, Special Needs, Teachers/Formal Educators, Youth Groups/Scouts
- Environmental Focus: Agriculture/Farming, Cultural Awareness, Ecology, Environmental Justice, Habitats/Ecosystems, Plants/Trees/Forests
- Academic Focus: Art – Performing, Art – Visual, Civics/Social Studies
