Andrina Wekontash Smith, Shinnecock storyteller, performer, and Ross School Alum, explored the intersection of race and class on the East End in her one-woman show and panel discussion, East End Native. The show dove into the complicated history through the unique lens of Andrina's personal narrative. The first half of the evening comprised spoken word, monologues, and storytelling. In the second, Andrina moderated a conversation with influential leaders fighting for representation for all the East End's residents. Panelists included Minerva Perez, Executive Director OLA of Eastern Long Island, Dyashwa Sylvester, Director, Shinnecock Youth Clubhouse, Becky Genia, and London Bess, Shinnecock High School Student. The program also featured projections by artist and Ross School parent Christine Sciulli.
East End Native was also a benefit performance for the Shinnecock Youth Clubhouse and Guild Hall Learning & Public Engagement initiatives. The Shinnecock Youth Clubhouse provides an open space where cultural and educational programming are introduced as alternatives to drug and alcohol use. The clubhouse provides support for the physical, social, emotional, mental, spiritual, and financial well-being of the Shinnecock Youth.
The program was the culminating showcase of Andrina Wekontash Smith's 2021 Community Artist-in-Residence at Guild Hall.