Mendocino College presents evening of Native American storytelling and digital art - Local News Matters

Mendocino College will host its second annual Native American storytelling event on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 5:30 p. m. The event features Jocelyn Garcia, a member of the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians, and Eric Wilder, a member of the Kashaya Band of Pomo Indians. Garcia, an animator, explores her Native and Mexican American identity through her award-winning film “Tule,” which has been screened at festivals worldwide.

Wilder shares traditional Kashaya knowledge and serves as president of the Gualala Arts Center, where he founded the Native Arts Expo. This year's program emphasizes the role of digital storytelling in engaging new audiences alongside traditional narratives. Lori Laiwa Thomas, a professor at the college, stated that the event connects ancient oral traditions with modern technology. The college hosts this event as part of its Native American Heritage Month celebrations. The storytelling event is free and will take place at the Little Theatre at Mendocino College in Ukiah.