"People of the West: Gold Rush" Screening, Presentation & Nature Walk
SSU Stevenson Hall 1301 and Native Plant Garden
Wed, Dec 2, 6:00 pm
– 8:00 pm
Admission Fees: none
Third in our "People of the West: An Indigenous History of California" screening and nature walk event series, this episode "Gold rush" covers California's mid-1800s transformation — marked by conquest, massacres, and betrayal. While myths later celebrate opportunity and cowboy codes, the reality is genocide and exclusion. Yet Native voices endure, affirming survival, memory, and responsibility to the Earth.
Following the presentation and discussion, participants will hear a half-hour presentation by Archaeologist Mark Selverston on research and cultural resource projects he's undertaken at prominent Gold Rush and state park locations. We'll then have the opportunity to take part in a gentle walk along the Copeland Creek Trail to the Native Plant Garden, where we can rest and reflect with nature. Dinner will be provided.
This event is part of a series in partnership with SSU's Office of Tribal Relations and SSU's Anthropological Studies Center.
Presenters
- Mark Selverston, Archaeologist, The Anthropological Studies Center, Sonoma State University
With Hosts:
- Elise Green, Director of Tribal Relations, Sonoma State University
- Kerry Wininger, Director of The Center for Environmental Inquiry, Sonoma State University
- Ben Siegel, Director of The Anthropological Studies Center, Sonoma State University
Logistics
This event is free of charge.
We will meet at SSU's Stevenson Hall, room 1301 for the film screening and presentation, then walk together to the Copeland Creek Corridor and Native Plant Garden. Stevenson Hall is located on the north-central/west side of campus, just west of the grassy quad, a 5-10 minute walk from Parking Lot D (reserved) or E (general). Room 1301 is in the north-east corner of the first floor, accessible from the open seating area. We recommend purchasing a Daily Parking Permit in advance by clicking here then selecting "Sonoma State,” or you can take public transportation to the bus stop at the campus south entrance on Redwood Drive.
No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate. The maximum distance will be less than 1 mile on relatively flat, unpaved ground.
All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Smoking and tobacco products are not permitted on the SSU campus. Restrooms are available on site. This is a rain or shine event, as the event will remain inside if necessary.
What to Bring
Please bring footwear for walking in gardens and dirt paths.
How to Sign Up
See registration link above. Each participant should register separately.
This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.