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American Indian Festival of Words

Tribal elders, storytellers, craftsmen, dancers and musicians share the history and traditions of North America’s native people during the American Indian Festival of Words, held annually in March. The free festival celebrates the contributions of American Indians through enlightening family programs offered at numerous libraries. The highlight of the festival is the presentation of the American Indian Festival of Words Author Award and the Circle of Honor ceremony, which alternate each year.

Festival of Words Author Award

The Festival of Words Author Award was established in 2000 to recognize literary contributions of outstanding American Indian authors. It is the first and only award given by a public library to honor an American Indian author. The award is given in odd numbered years and consists of a $5,000 prize and a commemorative medallion. Past recipients include Joy Harjo, Muscogee (Creek) poet and Vine Deloria, Jr., author, scholar and member of the Standing Rock Sioux.

Circle of Honor

An individual is inducted into the Circle of Honor in recognition of his/her outstanding lifetime achievements. This celebration takes place in even numbered years. The honoree receives a $5,000 cash prize and a commemorative medallion. Charles Chibitty, last surviving Comanche Code Talker, was the inaugural inductee in 2004.