On November 1st, members of the PTK Alumni Chapter and other interested participants embarked on a memorable trip to Washington, D.C., marking the start of Native American Heritage Month. The day began with an enriching visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, a special collaboration with Eleftherios Michael coordinated by the University of Baltimore’s Diversity and International Services. This event offered members and non-members a unique opportunity to delve into Native American history and culture, exploring the museum’s captivating exhibits that shed light on the heritage, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous communities across the Americas.
In the afternoon, our group—including Sabrina Pereira, Danica Nelson, Rebekah Opher, Artjona Adeoye, Mohit Dhabuwala, Jeel Khatiwala, Rhea Rene, Taylor Mulcahy, Megan Wheatley, India Harrison, Maliha Javaid, and Professor Steven Scalet—had the chance to participate in a guided U.S. Capitol tour. For many, it was their first time touring this historic symbol of American democracy. The experience was particularly meaningful with the upcoming elections around the corner, sparking discussions on civic duty, leadership, and the potential for future careers in government and law. Inspired by the significance of the U.S. Capitol, several attendees expressed their aspirations of one day serving in roles where they could contribute to the nation’s legislative process, perhaps even representing their communities under the Capitol’s iconic dome.
This trip underscored PTK’s dedication to fostering cultural awareness and civic engagement, leaving participants inspired by the depth of American history and their potential roles within it. We look forward to future events that build on these values and continue to engage our chapter members in meaningful educational experiences.