National Geo lecture series kicks off today

Archaeologist Alicia Odewale will present “Greenwood: A Century of Resilience” for the first National Geographic Live speaker in the lecture series today, Nov. 17, at the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College.

A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Odewale is uncovering stories of resilience in the hundred years since the attack on Black Wall Street in the city’s historic Greenwood district. Considered one of the worst episodes of racial violence committed against Black people in American history, the Tulsa Race Massacre left a devastating toll on generations of survivors and their descendants and impacted the very footprint of the district itself.

In support of her new research project, “Mapping Historical Trauma in Tulsa from 1921-2021,” Odewale has been re-examining historical and archaeological evidence of the period — focusing not on the attack itself, but instead on the community’s trauma and triumph in its aftermath. From documenting the personal stories of Greenwood’s residents to mapping the evidence of their resilience, Odewale’s work illuminates a new perspective on the impact of racism and racial violence in America, through the lens of a community that continues to survive against all odds.

Discover how archaeology can be used as a tool for recovering lost stories, reclaiming a narrative, and pursuing restorative justice.

Single tickets for the National Geographic Live speaker series start at $38 per event. The series subscription package offers discounted tickets for all five events and will be available through today, Nov. 17.

The National Geographic Live speaker series gives audiences incredible insight and behind-the-scenes stories straight from National Geographic's photographers, scientists, filmmakers and adventurers. Each event takes place live on the McClaren Hall stage, accompanied by iconic National Geographic footage and imagery.

For more information, visit wachholzcollegecenter.org or call 406-756-1400.