Berea College’s 2019 Appalachian Symposium this week will include a focus on Native American culture and history. Included in the program are authors Charles Frazier and Annette Clapsaddle who Tuesday afternoon will discuss Cherokee traditions, among other topics.
National Endowment for the Humanities Chair in Appalachian Studies at Berea College, Silas House, said that emphasis make sense. “We wanted to illuminate the importance of Native Americans, especially the Cherokee in Appalachian culture. Cherokees are the first Appalachians and we really wanted to draw attention to that,” said House.
In addition to readings and a workshop, the biennial symposium features an evening performance Wednesday from singer-songwriter Dori Freeman, a native of southwest Virginia.
The Berea College Appalachian Symposium is a financial supporter of WEKU.
