Darlene Kascak, educational coordinator and traditional Native American Storyteller at The Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington (Conn.), will participate in Newtown Historical Society’s Open House and Native American and Colonial Thanksgiving remembrance this month.

The event is planned for Sunday, November 20, from noon to 4 pm, at The Matthew Curtiss House.

Kascak, a Newtown resident and member of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, will share her thoughts on what this holiday traditionally meant as well as what it now means to indigenous cultures. She will also display and discuss examples of original tribal artifacts, furs, and documents.

“I especially love sparking the imagination of young people as they discover how Native Americans lived and evolved over the centuries,” Kascak explains. “Cultural storytelling and educational programs help people of all ages and backgrounds better understand other cultures.”

Kascak will provide cultural insights on the original Thanksgiving and how the centuries-old historical event differs from the commonly told story.

The holiday can mean a variety of things to different people. For today’s Native Americans, reflecting on this holiday is not easy. From period documents and Wampanoag oral histories, visitors will learn of the many ways this holiday resonates with various populations.

Native American spirituality, in both past and current times, emphasizes gratitude for creation, the environment, and communion with nature and fellow believers. All people, regardless of their heritage, should come together and give thanks for the goodness in their lives.

Native American Heritage Day, the Friday after the American Thanksgiving, is also a time to honor the beauty, strength, and heritage of the Native people.

Admission for this event is free, however, donations are accepted and welcomed in order to continue offering similar events.

Reservations are not taken for historical society events, but additional information may be found at NewtownHistory.org.