GIIWEDINONG TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL HARVEST DINNER

Giiwedinong will host its second annual Harvest Dinner on Sunday, October 19, from 5 - 8 p.m., featuring a special menu prepared by acclaimed Indigenous Chef Darrell Montana of Owamni by The Sioux Chef in Minneapolis.

Last years sold-out event showcased four courses highlighting Indigenous flavors, with bison, wild rice, squash, and handmade desserts as the centerpiece. This year's dinner promises to be just as memorable, featuring Indigenous foods from across the region, while also celebrating new milestones for Gliwedinong.

Guests will enjoy:

• A specially prepared meal by Chef Montana.

• The unveiling of a new art exhibit, presented in partnership with the Park Rapids Armory, showcasing contemporary Native artists from across the region.

• Access to the Gliwedinong Museum, open for visitors to view new exhibits.

The art exhibit at the historic Armory gallery will open prior to the dinner and remain on view throughout most of October.

The evening will also mark the introduction of Logan Mon-roe, a Leech Lake Band member and the newly appointed executive director of Giiwedinong. Monroe, who holds dual undergraduate degrees from Bemidji State University, brings experience from the University of Minnesota's Bell Museum, the Minnesota Indian Education Association, and statewide Indigenous initiatives.

"The Board of Directors of Giiwedinong welcomes our new director and a new era of outreach and education to serve our communities and strengthen the narrative of the Anishinaabe people and our land," said Board Chairman Don Wedll.

Monroe shared his vision for Giiwedinong:

"Stepping into the role of executive director at Giwedinong is both an honor and a responsibility I carry with great care. Giiwedinong is a place where the stories of our people, our land, and our treaties live on. As we look ahead, my vision is to continue growing Giiwedinong as a space of learning, healing, and connection where Indigenous voices guide the narrative, and where future generations can see themselves reflected with pride."

Now entering its third year, the Gliwedinong Museum of Treaty Rights and Culture continues to establish itself as a premier Indigenous museum in the region, dedicated to honoring and uplifting the voices, history, and future of the Anishinaabe people.

RSVP: Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP by emailing events@giiwedinong.org or by visiting giiwedinong.org.