Barona Cultural Center & Museum Recognized as a 2019 Recipient of Nation's Highest Museum and Library Honor

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 7, 2019) – The Institute of Museum and Library Services today announced the Barona Cultural Center & Museum as one of 10 recipients of the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Over the past 25 years, the award has celebrated institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities. The award will be presented at an event in Washington, D.C., on June 12.

The history of the indigenous people in the area of what is now San Diego County did not begin with the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the 18th century. Kumeyaay/Diegueño People have lived in this area since time immemorial and despite suffering waves of newcomers, they have adapted and succeeded as an indigenous nation. The Barona Band of Mission Indians’ Barona Cultural Center & Museum seeks to educate multiple, disparate audiences about the history of the Kumeyaay/Diegueño People.

“It is a pleasure to recognize the 10 distinctive recipients of the National Medal of Museum and Library Service,” said IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew. “Through their programs, services, and partnerships, these institutions exemplify the many ways that libraries and museums are positively transforming communities across the nation.”

Selected from 30 national finalists, the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners represent institutions that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service. Through their community outreach, these institutions bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.

“At Barona Cultural Center & Museum, we serve two populations, the native community here on the reservation — and by extension the entire Kumeyaay/Diegueño nation — and the general public,” said Museum Director Laurie Egan-Hedley. “We have a strong outreach program to educate people of all ages. We host numerous classes here at the museum. We feel very strongly that the Museum be a leader in the museum industry and a primary resource in educating our diverse communities.”

As part of the ceremony and celebration, Lakeside community member and Barona Tribal Elder Pat Curo will travel to Washington, D.C. with Laurie Egan-Hedley to accept the National Medal on behalf of the Barona Cultural Center & Museum and provide a personal account of the power the museum has had in the community.

“With such a large Native American population in San Diego County, it is imperative that this cultural history be preserved and protected for present and future generations. I have always been impressed with the approach and dedication the Barona Cultural Center has had toward this important goal and it was because of this that I was proud to nominate them for this prestigious award,” said Congressman Duncan Hunter. “I am in no way surprised that they won, it is well deserved. I congratulate the Cultural Center, my good friend Barona Chairman Romero and all elected officials and leadership within the Barona Band of Mission Indians for their commitment to preserving the Native American culture in our community and providing us all with the opportunity to learn together the significant contributions they have made in our local history.”

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit http://www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

About the Barona Cultural Center & Museum

Since opening in January 2000, the Barona Cultural Center & Museum has become recognized as a leading resource for people interested in learning about the true history and culture of the Kumeyaay/Diegueño People. Designed to preserve Native American history for future generations, the Barona Museum increases understanding of local Tribal history through innovative exhibits, free community outreach to schools and organizations, hands-on educational programming and workshops, a research center and a rare collection of artifacts that date back as far as 10,000 years.

The Barona Cultural Center & Museum is located on the Barona Indian Reservation at 1095 Barona Road in Lakeside, CA and is open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information or to schedule a group tour, call (619) 443-7003, ext. 219 or visit the website at http://www.baronamuseum.org.