‘I Am Not a Costume' exhibit coming to Dickson Mounds Museum on Nov. 14

The exhibit based on a children's book highlights the meaning of Indigenous regalia

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds will open "I Am Not a Costume," an exhibition based on the children's book of the same name, on Saturday, Nov. 14.

Written by Maria DesJarlait, "I Am Not a Costume" tells the story of Ayasha, a young Indigenous girl who attends a school costume party and discovers that non-Indigenous people are wearing inauthentic Indigenous regalia. With help from her family and community, Ayasha teaches others about her culture, the meaning of regalia, and how to honor and respect Indigenous peoples.

"'I Am Not a Costume' is not only a story about Indigenous advocacy and identity, but a story about empathy - how we can better understand and respect each other," said Sara Shaffer-Henry, associate director of Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds. "We are excited to share this story at Dickson Mounds and expand opportunities for learning about Indigenous cultures, past and present."

About the Illinois State Museum

Established in 1877, the Illinois State Museum is a dynamic institution that inspires the exploration of Illinois' past and present to inform and enrich everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a proud member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.