Indigenous Communities’ Traditional Use of Plants Focus of Medicine Wheel Garden Events in 2023 at USM Hattiesburg Campus

Mon, 02/06/2023 - 01:51pm | By: David Tisdale

The Center of American Indian Research and Studies (CAIRS) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is partnering with the Mississippi Humanities Council, WECAN (Women's Earth & Climate Action Network) and the Telenutrition Center to present four events throughout the year beginning Feb. 18 at the Medicine Wheel Garden, located on the USM Hattiesburg campus behind the Liberal Arts Building.

Dr. Tammy Greer, an associate professor of psychology who serves as director for CAIRS, developed the Medicine Wheel Garden in 2005 along with others to highlight the plants that were used by the indigenous peoples of this area, and to promote awareness of the rich histories and cultures of Southeastern Native Americans.

All events begin at 1 p.m. at the Medicine Wheel Garden; native plant-based snacks will be provided at each event. Members of the university and local communities are invited to these free events taking place the year, listed as follows:

  *   Feb. 18: Plant-Based Cordage with Jeanette Stone

  *   April 1: Shell-Carving with Alex Alvarez

  *   Sept. 23: Plant-Based Pigments with Robin Whitfield

  *   Nov. 11: Plant Medicine with Jenna Mae

To learn more about these events, the Medicine Wheel Garden or Native American history/culture, contact Dr. Greer at tammy.greerFREEMississippi.