Explore the deep-rooted knowledge and traditions of Native American communities in North Carolina through hands-on science, storytelling, and cultural experiences. Discover how Indigenous peoples have long understood and cared for the natural world — and how their wisdom continues to guide our relationship with the Earth today.
Presentation
12:30pm, SECU Daily Planet Theater
Indigenous Roots
Native Americans are storykeepers — storytelling is who we are and what we do. We are all citizens of a larger thread, living with the Earth and given its valuable gifts. Stewardship of these natural treasures helps preserve the vital knowledge they hold for future generations. Featuring an introduction by Quinn Godwin, DNCR Director of the Native American Heritage Coalition.
About the speaker
Tonya Holy Elk is an Indigenous author, poet, scholar and storyteller from North Carolina, whose writing captures the enduring strength of Native communities and the deep interconnection between land, memory and spirit. Tonya is a citizen of the Oglala Lakota Nation of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, with family ties to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. She grew up surrounded by the oral traditions and lived experiences that now shape her poetry. An advocate for literary and cultural arts, she is committed to engaging, empowering and preserving cultural memory while inspiring future generations to recognize the power of their own voices. Her poetic memoir, “Roots & Blooms,” and upcoming poetry collection, “Soul Food,” bring together poems that honor ancestral roots while speaking to contemporary struggles, resilience and renewal.
Activities
Nature Research Center Lobby
Voices of the Wild
Discover how animals share wisdom, guidance and lessons about living in balance with the natural world. Explore these stories and listen to the voices that have been teaching for generations.
Bees and Beans
Learn how sustainable planting practices like pollinator gardens and the Three Sisters planting method help generate a constant supply of food while maintaining environmental health.
We Are All Related: Mitákuye Oyásʼiŋ
Create a poem using writing prompts and/or letters with Tonya Holy Elk.
Triangle Native American Society (Urban Indian Organization)
Celebrate 40 years of local impact as this community expands its reach across the Triangle. Connect with the team and learn how they are increasing the visibility of Native people and culture.
NC Government and Heritage Library
Discover the history of American Indian tribes in North Carolina with resources to support researching tribal ancestry. Explore educational materials and take home free seed packets from the Native Seed Library.
Roots of Discovery offers a meaningful platform where communities can share their stories in their own voice—through hands-on science, artistic expression and cultural traditions—while showcasing the connections between culture, nature and scientific discovery.