In 1990, the month of November was declared Native American Heritage Month in the USA. Organized by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the month is dedicated to honoring the traditions, languages and stories of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples and helping to ensure that their rich history and contributions live on from generation to generation. In 2009, the US Congress also passed a law declaring the Friday after Thanksgiving as "Native American Heritage Day".
We are building on this: The Karl May Museum has been working closely with representatives of indigenous groups from the USA and Canada for many years. To accompany the new reception building and the further development of the content of our exhibitions - particularly on the subject of "Indians of North America" - we are launching our own series of events in November for the first time this year. Throughout the month, we will welcome various guests from North America who will share their perspectives, languages, stories, songs and arts with us.
Our aim is an open exchange at eye level: What does indigenous life in America look like today? What historical lines shape the present? And what can a dignified, knowledgeable and respectful presentation of these topics look like in the Karl May Museum in the future? We invite our visitors to join us in being inspired by the culture of these fascinating peoples, to listen, think and speak along with us - for a deeper understanding and a lively connection that will have an impact beyond this month.
Program:
Sunday, November 09, 2025, 2 p.m.
→ Kevin Manygoats presents "Insights into the culture of the Diné (Navajo)"
Saturday, November 15, 2025, 5 p.m.
→ Drew Hayden Taylor film screening "Searching for Winnetou", book presentation "COLD" & panel discussion
Saturday, November 22, 2025, 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.
→ Kendall Old Elk: "Native American Show" - living indigenous culture, dances and songs
Saturday, November 22, 2025, 5.00 p.m. / Sunday, November 23, 2025, 2.00 p.m.
→ Presentation & discussion with Kendall Old Elk "Insights into the culture of the Apsaalooke"
