Art of Activism – Stories from William Harjo featuring Mitch Walking Elk

This First Voices Festival event features storytelling and music with William Harjo, an honored Muscogee (Creek) elder who has shared stories, music, and his fine flute-crafting techniques nationwide. Singer-songwriter Mitch Walking Elk (Southern Cheyenne & Arapaho) will join Mr. Harjo in conversation and music-making on our main stage for a special connection among elders.

Participants will share a meal and vital conversations about the Doctrine of Discovery & the role of Christianity in the colonization of the original people of this land.

A pre-show reception in the lobby, provided by food vendor and chef Tina Reyes (Apache) of Rez Juice, brings us authentic sweet and savory Fry Bread and RezBerry Juice made with Indigenous berries from across the Southeast. The mainstage will then be filled with stories and songs, connecting all through art, history, and everyday life.