Located in Exeter, Rhode Island, Tomaquag Museum is Rhode Island’s only Indigenous-led museum, dedicated to sharing the history, culture, and arts of Indigenous peoples. Through lectures, arts and educator workshops, ecological knowledge tours, and offsite programs focused on the Indigenous peoples of the Dawnland (focus Southern New England), we engage and foster dialogue that reconciles the past and empowers present and future generations. Tomaquag Museum is the only museum in Rhode Island to receive the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for community service.
Description
This session explores the impact of generational trauma, colonization, displacement, and systemic inequities on Indigenous mental health while highlighting cultural resilience, traditional healing practices, and pathways toward recovery and community well-being.
Rene Rico, MA, LMHC-A (Narragansett/Bolivian) is a behavioral health and rehabilitative services leader with nearly 20 years of experience across inpatient, outpatient, and forensic settings. She currently serves in a leadership role at a state forensic psychiatric hospital, supporting rehabilitation services, strategic planning, and operations. Rene holds degrees in Sociology and Rehabilitation Counseling, along with a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Mental Health Counseling. She is committed to advancing evidence-based rehabilitation through interdisciplinary collaboration, strong leadership, and a focus on recovery and successful community reintegration.
Date & Time
Mon, Oct 26, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM