American-Indian panel will meet, screen video

Intertribal American Indians of New Jersey will offer a showing of the video "They Lied to You in School" at the group's next meeting set for 2 p.m. on Sept. 15 at the log cabin in Thompson Park, Monroe.

The film, created and narrated by Ray MacFadden, a Mohawk Indian and founder of the Six Nations Indian Museum in Ochiota, N.Y., addresses common myths about American Indians and focuses on the many contributions of indigenous people in North America. A discussion and refreshments will follow the screening.

Intertribal American Indians of New Jersey is a nonprofit organization that provides social activities and support for American Indians living in New Jersey. Members come from tribes throughout the country. The group, which is dedicated to educating the public about American-Indian culture and history, provides programs for schools, corporations, universities and healthcare organizations.

Meetings are held once a month in the log cabin located beside the lake and opposite the animal enclosure in Thompson Park. A discussion of the book "The Celestial Bear Comes Down From Heaven" is planned for Oct. 20. "Why I Hate Thanksgiving" is set for Nov. 10, and "Mohawk Celebration Stories" is on tap for Dec. 15.

For more information on the group's meetings or to arrange for a speaker, call Mary Anne Ross at (732) 238-3792 or e-mail maryanneross123@yahoo.com. Funding for the program has been provided in part by the Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission, the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey Historical Commission/Department of State.