Cleveland State Community College is sponsoring Historian/Lecturer Zonnie Gorman on Thursday, April 4 at 7 p.m. in the George R. Johnson Cultural Heritage Center Theater.
Recognized historian of the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II, Ms. Gorman is an expert in her field and a dedicated teacher. She has served as a consultant to numerous documentaries, museum exhibitions and authors.
Ms. Gorman is currently the project coordinator for the Circle of Light Navajo Educational Project (CLNEP), a nonprofit organization in May 2001 and located in Gallup, N.M. CLNEP offers a variety of Navajo role models to youth and fosters cultural pride and self-worth, while educating them along with non-Navajos about the rich history, culture, language, and contributions of the Navajo people.
She is the daughter of the late Dr. Carl Gorman; artist, teacher and one of the original “first 29” Navajo Code Talkers who devised the initial Navajo code. She is also the youngest sister to the legendary and renowned Navajo artist, the late R.C. Gorman.
In 1989, Ms. Gorman embarked on a journey to discover that part of her father that had been a Code Talker. With a love of history, her journey has led her through 15 years of in-depth research and interviews. Ms. Gorman shares a touching story of young teenage boys seeking adventure and escape. The Code Talker story is the ultimate paradox—a shining achievement for Native America.
Admission to this event is free and the community is invited to attend. There will be a reception immediately following the speaking engagement in Ms. Gorman’s honor. Funding for this event is provided by the Access and Diversity Grant.
For more information, contact Tracey Wright at 423 473-2341.