Explore the rich traditions of the Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen Nation with Tribal Chairwoman Louise J. Miranda-Ramirez and Dr. Melissa Leal at MPC in Monterey on November 18, 2024. These back-to-back events offer an inspiring blend of hands-on artistry and educational insight into Indigenous culture and expression.

Hands-On Earring Making Workshop: Traditional Abalone Earrings

Date: November 18, 2024
Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Location: Stutzman Room
RSVP Required: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd63trY_CwlZEEjdlKVy-F_60mG0eG5vYlkU6KQh5oMegLBcg/viewform

Louise Ramirez, Tribal Chairwoman of Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen Nation (OCEN) will host an traditional abalone earring-making workshop in the Stutzman Room for 25 individuals (first-come/first-serve). Due to materials required, limited spaces are available to make sure to sign up soon! At this event, Louise will lead an engaging activity where students can create traditional abalone earrings, offering a hands-on connection to her people’s artistry and traditions.

Louise J. Miranda-Ramirez was appointed as Tribal Chairwoman of OCEN in 2006 and elected in 2007. With deep roots in her Esselen ancestry, she has devoted her career to preserving cultural heritage, particularly through language restoration and community education.

Indigenous Hip Hop: How artists tell their stories and create space for indigenous futures.

Date: November 18, 2024
Time: 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Location: Sam Karas Room

Join us for an engaging and informative presentation by Dr. Melissa Leal, Chair of the Ethnic Studies Department at Sierra College. Dr. Leal has over 20 years of experience working in Education, specifically with American Indian/Alaska Native students and Tribal Communities. Dr. Leal earned her undergraduate degree in Ethnic Studies from Sac State and her Ph.D. In Native American Studies from UC Davis. She is an enrolled member of Ohlone/Costanoan Esselen Nation.