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In celebration of Indigenous Heritage Month, students in Sunrise of Philadelphia’s Out-of-School Time (OST) programs participated in a hands-on paper weaving project inspired by Indigenous textile traditions. This engaging activity invited young learners to explore the artistry, history, and cultural storytelling embedded in the textile practices of Indigenous communities across America.

Since 1999, Sunrise Philadelphia has supported students across the city in discovering their strengths, experiencing success, and preparing for their futures. A key part of this mission is honoring diversity and personal heritage, an essential component in building confidence, identity, and youth protective factors.

Exploring Indigenous Roots Through Art

Students were first introduced to the concept of Indigenous heritage through Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing that Indigenous identity is deeply woven into many Hispanic cultures. They examined images of traditional woven textiles crafted by Indigenous artisans from Central and South America, noting how colors, symbols, and patterns differ across cultures and how each design carries meaning and purpose.

They learned that textiles often serve as cultural records, reflecting identity, values, community stories, and ancestral knowledge. As the program transitioned into Indigenous Heritage Month, students expanded their learning by exploring the significance of regalia and traditional clothing within North American Indigenous communities. 

Creating Their Own Cultural “Textiles”

After exploring these traditions, students applied what they learned by creating their own woven designs using colorful paper strips. They experimented with symmetry, repetition, and pattern making, core techniques found in many traditional textiles. Many students chose colors or patterns that resonated with their personal identities, revealing how cultural learning can foster self-reflection and connection.

A Tapestry of Heritage and Identity

By integrating this project across Hispanic Heritage Month and Indigenous Heritage Month, students gained a deeper understanding that these identities are diverse. Instead, they reflect interconnected histories, woven from the traditions, knowledge, and artistry of Indigenous peoples throughout America.

Today, their vibrant woven artworks hang proudly in the program space, celebrating not only their creativity but also the rich cultural roots that guide and inspire them.