SIMI VALLEY : Artifacts Boost Awareness of Culture

Two years ago, Corina Antonucci thought the traditional ways of American Indians had all but disappeared.

But now the 29-year-old Simi Valley resident knows the old traditions are still alive and, in fact, thriving.

Antonucci has a list of American Indian pen pals and an extensive collection of American Indian artifacts, artwork and literature that is now on display at the Simi Valley Library.

“I started the project because of my own ignorance,” Antonucci said. She started learning about American Indian culture in 1990 after discovering that a woman she was communicating with in New York--and with whom she shared an interest in saving wild horses--was Cherokee.

“She told me things about Indians and their culture that I had no idea about,” Antonucci said. “I wanted to show other non-Indian people that Native Americans are very much alive and part of our culture.”

Antonucci put an advertisement in the local papers last year asking American Indians to contribute their artwork, poetry, songs, teachings and ideas to her project. “So far, the response has been wonderful,” she said.

The exhibit also includes items donated by the Smithsonian Institute, the Pan America Indian Assn. and American Indians from across the nation. On display are artifacts such as headbands, feather fans and rattles. But, Antonucci said, “the strength of the display is the people,” including American Indians who sent letters and photographs of themselves.

The exhibit is touring libraries, colleges and museums throughout Ventura County and will be at the Simi Valley Library until the end of May.

Composer Melanie McCoy, a Cherokee woman who lives in Simi Valley, donated several artifacts as well as musical scores that incorporate harmonies, chants and prayers from American Indian cultures.

“It’s a great thing she’s doing,” McCoy said of Antonucci’s efforts. “Native Americans didn’t want to talk about this stuff for a long time, but now it’s time to share our culture with other people,” McCoy said. “It’s a part of American history that nobody knows about.”

Antonucci has received photos and letters from American Indians across the nation.

People interested in contributing to the exhibit may contact Antonucci at 818-594-1506.