The Lenape People: Past, Present & Future
Schedule
Sat, 13 Jun, 2026 at 10:00 am
UTC-04:00Location
940 Centre Ave, Reading, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19601 | Reading, PA
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~The Lenape People: Past, Present and Future~Join the Berks History Center for our June Second Saturday Lecture Program on Saturday, June 13 at 10:00AM. Light refreshments will be served beginning at 9:30AM. This program is offered both in person in the BHC auditorium and virtually, providing an opportunity for all to participate. For those who wish to attend virtually, please return to the BHC's calendar of events and register through the VIRTUAL option.
The cost to attend is $5 for BHC Members and $10 for Non-Members.
This powerful and educational program, presented by Chief Barbara “Bluejay” Michalski, will explore the rich history, vibrant present, and hopeful future of the Lenape people. Chief Bluejay will share how the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania is revitalizing its culture while continuing its sacred role as caretaker of the Lenape homeland.
Her lecture will include the telling of the Prophecy of the Four Crows, reflections on Lenape history in Lenapehoking (the ancestral homeland of the Lenape), and insight into how the Nation works today to preserve language, traditions, and environmental stewardship. Chief Bluejay will also encourage practices that foster a peaceful and respectful relationship with the natural world. The program will conclude with an open discussion and time for questions.
~About the Speaker~
Chief Barbara “Bluejay” Michalski
Chief Barbara “Bluejay” Michalski received her name from her grandfather, Bill Thompson, the late Chief Whippoorwill of the Unalachtigo (People Near the Ocean) Tribe of the Turkey Clan. A dedicated member of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania, she has been deeply involved in the Nation’s leadership and cultural initiatives.
Appointed Chief Keeper of Culture in October 2022, she serves on Tribal Council and was Tribal Secretary until May 2024, when she was elected Vice President. She is also one of the Nation’s Oral Storytellers.
Chief Bluejay works passionately to educate the public through events and festivals throughout Lenapehoking, especially enjoying opportunities to teach children about Lenape history through crafts, storytelling, and artifacts. She frequently visits schools, scout groups, and camps to share this knowledge.
A strong advocate for environmental stewardship, she promotes clean water initiatives and the protection of Earth Mother. Her interest in medicinal plants led to her first virtual presentation in November 2022, and she continues to expand her understanding of the plant nation. Additionally, she studies the Unami dialect in weekly Lenape language classes to help preserve this endangered language for future generations.
We invite you to join us for this meaningful conversation honoring the enduring legacy and living culture of the Lenape people.
For more information and to register, please visit: https://berkshistory.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F37629
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Where is it happening?
940 Centre Ave, Reading, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19601Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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