Author Kim Sigafus Presents in Native Authors & Artists Series

March 12, 2025

Perpich Center for Arts Education welcomed Kim Sigafus (White Earth Nation) as our guest on March 11, 2025 in our Native Authors & Artists Series. Kim is an internationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. She writes in many genres, and talked about bringing something from her own life into each of her books. Kim was interviewed by Dr. Stephanie Lein Walseth, Perpich Center’s Theater Education Specialist in the Professional Development and Resource Programs group. The Native Authors & Artists Series of guest speakers is specifically designed to introduce K-12 educators and librarians to books by Dakota and Ojibwe authors and illustrators. Each gathering features an interview and Q&A with a guest presenter, resource lists, and includes time in the Perpich Library to peruse our extensive collection of books by Native authors. The series is hosted by Perpich’s Professional Development and Resource Programs (PDR).

Kim Sigafus speaks to a gathered audience at the Native Authors Series on March 11, 2025. She is joined on stage by Dr. Stephanie Lein Walseth, Theater Education Specialist.

Kim’s father was a member of White Earth, and he passed away when she was just an infant. During her interview, Kim shared that she began learning about her Native American heritage as an adult. Now she enjoys sharing her culture with others, and does so in presentations for schools, libraries, and major conferences. Kim drums and sings, and presents in her native regalia. In her free time, Kim crafts talking feathers and dream catchers.

“I was reminded of so many things as I listened to Kim’s experiences,” reflected Wendy Barden, Director of Professional Development and Resource Programs. “She talked about the significance of learning from elders in every culture and recognizing the unique experiences, perspectives, and lessons they are very willing to share if we’d only ask.”

Anne Dennison, Librarian at Perpich Center shared, “It was a privilege to have Kim Sigafus join us from Illinois and for her to share her prolific collection of books. She recalled experiences growing up here in Golden Valley [where Perpich Center is located] and in North Minneapolis, many of which heavily influenced her young adult novels.”

Kim Sigafus urged attendees to get outside and teach about the world around them. “Whatever you’re doing, do it with a good heart and in a way that honors the Native spirit,” she said.

Watch the interview with Kim Sigafus on our Native Authors & Artists Series webpage.