Piscataway Indian Nation to perform at UF

November 6, 2006

Five members of the Piscataway Indian Nation will perform traditional dance from 6 to 7 p.m., Nov. 8, in the Reitz Student Union Auditorium on the University of Florida campus.

Internationally recognized for their living history programs, Mark Tayac and the Piscataway Indian Nation Singers and Dancers have performed at national pow-wows, major festivals and college campuses across North America. Their colorful, artful and educational programs serve to educate and entertain audiences who want to learn more about Native American history, culture and contemporary issues.

For thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans, Piscataway culture thrived along the banks of the Potomac River. In 1608, the Piscataway Nation became a central power in the confederation of many nations, including the Iroquois. During the 1930s, the Piscataway won a landmark case that halted the desecration of sacred burial grounds and the archaeological excavations of Moyaone, the historic capital and cultural center of the Piscataway, which is more than 15,000 years old.

Today, thousands of indigenous people come to “Tayac Territory” near Port Tobacco, Maryland, to take part in activities for the preservation of Native American life and culture. From Tayac Territory, Mark Tayac and the Piscataway Nation travel extensively, throughout Europe, Canada and the United States, conducting workshops, presenting lectures and performing authentic Native American dance, drum and song.

This event is made possible by Multicultural and Diversity Affairs in the Dean of Students Office, which is part of the Division of Student Affairs and is co-sponsoring by Nation, the Honors Program and the Inter Residence Hall Association.