Biography
Born & raised on the Narragansett Tribal reservation in Charlestown Rhode Island, Annawon eventually made his home in his mother’s Wampanoag community located in Mashpee, MA.
Following in his father Tall Oak's footsteps, Annawon began sharing the culture of his tribes with his family during public programs and performances at a very young age. As an adult, Annawon's passion for preserving the culture has been clear throughout decades spent working at Plimoth Plantation (Museum Interpreter/Outreach Educator) and Boston Children’s Museum.
Although many have witnessed the accomplishments and contributions made throughout his journey, in October of 2016 Congressman James “Jim” Langevin took special notice and decided to commemorate the life efforts of Annawon, awarding him with a Congressional Honor as Culture Bearer for the entire New England region during the Tomaquag Museum Annual Honoring reception.
Currently self-employed, Annawon dedicates much of his time visiting schools, colleges, museums, libraries, birthdays, corporations and more, as he continues his efforts to correct misinformation and misrepresentation of indigenous people. Annawon has found many ways to educate any audience. On stage or in the classroom, his ability to share his tribal culture has been sought after by many institutions such as: Smithsonian, National Geographic, Scholastic, PBS, History/Discovery Channel, Harvard, Nike, Reebok, & many other corporate, educational and environmental organizations.
Speaking Information
Fees
Annawon's rates: $350 + mileage (1st hr) $150 (ea. additional)
Wampanoag Nation Dancers & Singers: $1000 + mileage
Eastern Sons Drum Group: rates begin @ $1,500 w/ dancers
Topics
Tribal Sovereignty
Cultural Identity
Contemporary or Traditional Lifeways
Native American Slavery
Whaling
Cultural Appropriation
Arts
Music/Dance Customs
Games and Activities
Thanksgivings