Anton Treuer: Everything You Wanted to Know about Indians but Were Afraid to Ask
Anton Treuer gave two lectures in our region themed around his book, "Everything You Wanted to Know about Indians but Were Afraid to Ask." Dr. Treuer provided insightful conversation and answers to any and all questions that audience members had about Indians. By tackling difficult and sometimes sensitive topics head-on, Dr. Treuer was able to communicate openly and honestly with everyone who attended. His approach builds true understanding, and gave the audience a chance to view Minnesotan history through a new lens.
313 participated
After hearing Dr. Treuer's lectures, we hope that patrons will have increased their understanding of Native American history and culture. We also hope that this program will increase interest in Minnesota's Native populations, Ojibwe culture, and/or the struggles faced by today's Native Americans. Survey questions pertaining to these expected outcomes will be distributed at each location following the lectures. We will also take public comments, and evaluate why patrons enjoyed and attended these lectures.
After watching this program, 95% of surveyed patrons said that they have increased their understanding of Native American history and culture. 95% of surveyed patrons said the program increased general knowledge, and helped them to better understand a topic. 34% of surveyed patrons say that the program helped them to generate or refine ideas and/or goals. 85% of respondents said that this program increased their interest in Minnesota's Native populations, Ojibwe culture and/or the struggles faced by today's Native Americans. We collected many public comments, including "this program was eye-opening, informative and enjoyable," and "great speaker- I'd go to another presentation."
Each year, SELCO sponsors MN Book Award Author tours featuring both winning and nominated MN Book Award authors at MN libraries. We reached out to SELCO to provide us with the annual regional allotment of $2,750 to help sponsor Dr. Treuer's visit. He was nominated for the MN Book Award in 2016.