About

Tomaquag Museum has won the Institute of Museum and Library Services award, the United States highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community. For 22 years, the award has celebrated institutions that respond to societal needs in innovative ways, making a difference for individuals, families and their communities. The award will be presented at a ceremony event in Washington, D.C. "Congratulations to the Tomaquag Museum on bringing this prestigious national honor to Rhode Island,” said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.  “I was proud to nominate the Museum for its impressive work preserving Rhode Island’s Native American culture. The Museum is an exceptional resource that I hope will honor the important heritage of Rhode Island’s indigenous people for generations to come.” Said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D) Rhode Island. “This year’s National Medal recipients show the transforming role of museums and libraries from educational destinations to full-fledged community partners and anchors,” said Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We are proud to recognize the extraordinary institutions that play an essential role in reaching underserved populations and catalyzing new opportunities for active local involvement.” This podcast episode is part 1 of the Ceremony that took place in Washington DC. About Tomaquag Museum: Tomaquag Museum, Rhode Island’s only museum entirely dedicated to telling the story of the Indigenous Peoples was established in 1958. It is a Native-led nonprofit museum. Tomaquag serves as a cultural bridge between the past, present and future as well as a facilitator between the Indigenous communities and the diverse world. Through our unique collection, lectures, tours, off-site programs, and arts & educator workshops, we educate the public regarding Native history, culture, arts, current events, and environmental issues. The Museum is visited each year by artists, researchers, students, and travelers from across the United States and throughout the world. For more information, please visit www.tomaquagmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.