National Museum of the American Indian

Mr. West spoke about the National Museum of the American Indian and its mission, scheduled to open in its new location on the National Mall in two weeks. He described the Museum as critical to "the encouragement of a multi-cultural dialogue," and emphasized its philosophy that shows the history of the American Indian to be one of a "deep and wide cultural continuum." He acknowledged that Indians have often been relegated to the "shadows of American history," but added that the Museum helps to "add in a serious, rigorous, disciplined, and scholarly way the voices of native peoples themselves." He talked about the museum's outreach programs and research resources, as well as changes resulting from the new location. He responded to audience questions.