Anthropologist Paul H. Gelles will headline the next installment of the free Second Thursday series hosted by the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center, 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 9.

Designed to bring the community together through art, conversation and lectures, this month’s after-hours event features Gelles, a University of California professor, author and anthropologist.

Gelles’ talk will focus on his book “Chumash Renaissance: Indian Casinos, Education, and Cultural Politics in Rural California.” He will discuss the book within the larger context of issues facing Indigenous peoples in the U.S., and throughout the Americas.

Gelles worked in and for Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Andes for many years. He also worked with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ summer youth program, 2003-05.

He is the author of “Water and Power in Highland Peru” and is co-producer of the films “Transnational Fiesta: 1992” and “Transnational Fiesta: 20 Years Later.”

Gelles taught at Midland School in Los Olivos for 18 years and currently lives in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Guests on July 9 will have evening access to the museum’s galleries and gift shop. No RSVP is required and all are welcome to attend

The Second Thursday series debuted June 11 with a presentation by Chumash community member and copper artist Beau Armenta.

“As the museum enters its second year, it remains a place for learning and cultural connection, strengthening its overall visitor experience through expanded programming, guided tours and deep educational engagement,” organizers said.

For more, visit www.sychumashmuseum.org.