Winter 2009 Volume 5, Issue 3

From the CNAS Director - Film Premiere - Ojibwe Birch Bark Wigwam April E. Lindala “Whenever you make anything, you always put your- In reading this, you are some of self into it” —Marvin Defoe, Red Lake Ojibwe the first to learn about the “Ojibwe Birch Bark Wigwam” is a one-hour significant changes to the Native documentary produced, directed and video American Studies (NAS) minor. recorded by Dr. Michael Loukinen, Professor I am extremely pleased to share of Sociology at N.M.U. will premiere on with you that several enhance- Friday, March 13 at 7 p.m. in Jamrich Hall ments were submitted last fall 102 on the NMU Campus. Nick Hockings, an acclaimed Ojibwe Cultural and recently approved. Educator, from Lac du Flambeau, WI, joins a group of primarily elderly Changes include additional NAS Euro-Americans and shows them how to build an authentic birch bark courses, structure changes and a wigwam. The forest was the traditional Ojibwe’s hardware, building sup- minimum G.P.A. This has taken ply, pharmacy and grocery store. Hands-on techniques learned over real effort by many of the faculty centuries are fused with Ojibwe cultural teachings and woven into a of Native American Studies and I practical, yet spiritual ecology of the northern hardwood forest. Editing, want to thank them for their be- graphics and special effects by Grant Guston, NMU Anishinaabe News hind-the-scenes work in making Instructional Media Services. Wigwam Continued on Page 2 c/o Center for Native American Studies these changes possible. Evon Peter of Native Movement to Visit NMU! Northern Michigan University NAS Minor Continued on page 13. 1401 Presque Isle Avenue The 2009 NMU Indigenous Earth Issues Summit Marquette, Michigan 49855 Keynote Presenter (speaking on Monday, April 6 Inside this Issue at 7 p.m. in the NMU Great Lakes Rooms): Remembering Walt Bresette Evon Peter (Neetsaii Gwich'in), Executive Direc- *** tor of Native Movement and Former Chief of the Changes to NAS Minor Neetsaii Gwich'in, will be speaking on *** "An Arctic Perspective on the Eco–Challenges Upcoming Indigenous Earth Facing Our Generation”. Issues Summit Information A summary of Peter’s speech in his own words: “How will we navigate the fall of unsustainable economics and non- *** renewable energy use in an era of Global Warming? What are the im- Alumni Spotlight pacts on peoples day-to-day lives? In Arctic villages we are already en- *** countering these challenges head on with gas prices at $7-$12 per gal- Wisconsin Governor Backs lon and a rapidly shifting environment. What is happening in our vil- Language Programs lages is an early warning sign for the rest of humanity. We must shift *** our direction if we are to avoid unnecessary suffering and hardship. Do And much more! we have the insight and will to make the change? 2 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 15 Wigwam continued from page 1 It’s a feeling that I have for the hold our rice, to protect our rice. PBS Native History Documentary Begins Monday, April 13, 2009 tree, for all trees and particularly Our containers… You can even cook Viewers will see: the making of an that tree. You are using it to in birch bark. Cooking vessels, heat “The Master of Life has appointed this offering to the forest spirits before make something to use. It’s like little rocks, put up in there, or you place for us on which to light our gathering its bounty, peeling birch our people have used birch bark can boil water on the bark. Even our fires, and here we shall remain.” bark and puncturing holes with a for centuries, ever since the be- people use that in ceremonies, a lot Tecumseh (Shawnee) deer bone awl; separating the ginning of the time we were here. of ceremonies we use this bark; strands of basswood inner bark to From PBS’s acclaimed history series Birch bark, wigwams, bark… It’s there are many uses that was given make twine, and making a pine AMERICAN EXPERIENCE, in associa- like that tree is a sacred tree, all to us, this bark. pitch roofing tar. tion with Native American Public trees are, but birch to me is a lit- But we don’t own that, the spirits Volunteers tell us how they have Telecommunications (NAPT), tle more because it was given to they own that. We are asking to use been affected by their experience that birch bark.” comes WE SHALL REMAIN, a us to use to protect our families, of building a wigwam. Viewers For more information visit groundbreaking mini-series and our wigwams. Wigwams are made Native experience,” he says. especially, across the country… are left with an understanding and www.wildwoodsurvival.com/ provocative multi-media project with birch bark; to protect our “What connects these five films is Hearing the language is going to deep appreciation for the survival survival/shelter/wigwam/ that establishes Native history as family we use that. Our canoes the resolve of their characters. bring awareness that the lan- culture of the Ojibwe. They are wigwampukaskwa.html an essential part of American his- travel, to travel with on the This country is founded on people guage does still exist, and it’s volunteers serving in the U.S. tory. Five 90-minute documenta- water. We never had cars. We The film premiere is sponsored by the N.M.U. striving, being tenacious and mov- pretty strong. Forest Service Passport in Time ries spanning three hundred years used canoes. It is a major mode of Anthropology Club and the N.M.U. Native ing forward… this is a look at that, How did Native cultural advisors program which coordinates volun- American Student Association with support tell the story of pivotal moments in through Native eyes.” contribute to the films? transportation. Our baskets, we from the Center for Native American Studies teers assisting in archeological U.S. history from the Native Ameri- For more information about Cassius Spears (Narragansett, cul- make our makaks, (baskets) to and the Sociology/Social Work Department. research “digs.” can perspective. WE SHALL RE- AMERICAN EXPERIENCE and WE tural advisor): You’ll find that peo- Funded by the Michigan Council MAIN will premiere on PBS (Public SHALL REMAIN visit ple just kind of group all of us for the Arts (two grants), Northern TV 13 in Marquette) in April 2009. pbs.org/weshallremain *Natives+ into one. We’ve got the Michigan University, the Lac Vieux A companion public radio docu- big war bonnets and everybody Desert Band of Lake Superior mentary series, focusing on con- Why We Shall Remain? thinks we ride horses and have Ojibwe, NMU College of Profes- temporary Native issues, will be Sharon Grimberg (Exec. Producer): spears, and it’s nothing like that… sional Studies, the Department of distributed to public radio and Na- Most Americans…think about this you’ll see that *Natives+ work with Sociology and Social Work and Mi- tive broadcasters to coincide with country being a country of immi- their environment, their resources chael Loukinen and Elaine Foster. the television program. grants; the Europeans who came in that area. That is how they’re Marvin Defoe, Red Lake Ojibwe— Beginning in the 1600s with the here and built new lives...This con- dressed. Their diet is completely “Whenever you make anything, Wampanoags, who used their alli- tinent was very densely inhabited different because they’re eating you always put yourself into it; ance with the English to strengthen before any white people came the foods in [that] area. Every- you put yourself into the canoe. their position in Southern New Eng- here, and those original inhabi- thing is from their resources. So But it’s like, I don’t just go out and land, and ending with the bold new tants of this continent played an how are you going to tell a story gather bark. Everything comes leaders of the 1970s, who har- incredibly important role in shap- about Native people if you don’t from the wood, your bark, your nessed the momentum of the Civil ing this country. [We Shall Re- include all that? cedar, your roots, your pitch. You Rights Movement to forge a pan- main] looks at American history What do you hope We Shall Indian identity, WE SHALL REMAIN put it on there. But the most im- April’s Tiny Tidbit and the role that Native Ameri- Remain accomplishes? upends two-dimensional stereo- portant thing is that you give rev- The Center is investigating the possibility of selling Native specific items to cans played in shaping the U.S. We R. David Edmunds (Cherokee, se- erence; you give reverence to that help generate revenue for programming for the campus and surrounding types of American Indians as simply try to re-imagine the American ries advisor): This illustrates that… bark, that tree. It’s a feeling that’s community. These items should be unique to our region to best attract an ferocious warriors or peaceable experience through the eyes of this [country] is not a melting pot. when you’re talking to that tree, audience. If you have any experience in setting up a small, non-profit busi- lovers of the land. Native people. This is a great American stew. and you’re asking that tree to ness or ideas for such a venture - please contact the Chris Eyre, director of the first What role do Native languages And those lumps are going to con- have a piece of it’s skin, if I could Center with your ideas. Our e-mail is three episodes of WE SHALL RE- play in We Shall Remain? tinue in that stew and we’re all have your skin because I want to [email protected]. We appreciate your ideas for how MAIN, has been involved with the Harry Oosahwee (Cherokee, lan- going to have to learn to live to- make canoe. Put tobacco down, to make this small gift shop something special. series from its onset. “You can’t guage dialect coach): Sometimes I gether. And this I think offers Here’s one item to think about, a smart alternative just like I come up to a person and understand America in the 21st feel like people don’t know that some insights into how we’ve at- to plastic shopping bags. On sale now at the CNAS - ask them for their skin. century if you don’t understand the 112 Whitman Hall for $12. languages exist, tribal languages tempted to do so. 14 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 3 Ojibwe map gifted to Native Studies and hung in Whitman Hall Walt Bresette: Celebrating a Northwoods Legend

A large map featuring Ojibwe By Aimée Cree Dunn—Anishinaabe/Green activist, Walt Bresette, Geographic place names in the remains a powerful presence, even now, ten years after he walked on. 1837 Ceded Territories of Minne- He touched many lives, perhaps thousands, throughout the Great Lakes sota and Wisconsin, and the 1842 area and beyond with his activism, ideas and humor. From helping to Ceded Territories of Wisconsin and establish the early presence of the Green Party in the United States, to Michigan, as well as the 1836 working tirelessly for Ojibwe treaty rights, to fighting for the Earth, Walt Ceded Territory of the Michigan was one who never flinched from speaking truth to power, be that Upper Peninsula was donated to power the ignorance of racism or the in-the-pockets-of-mining- the N.M.U. Center for Native multinationals-governor of Wisconsin. Walt spoke for the land and he American Studies by Jim St. Arnold spoke for the people. Walt was known as a radical and as a bridge be- of the Great Lakes Indian Fish and tween the Indian and non-Indian communities. He saw connections Wildlife Commission. The map was where others saw only differences. For him the Ojibwe and northern recently mounted for permanent rural communities shared common struggles, that of remaining on the display in the Whitman Hall Com- land; maintaining cultural integrity in the face of a culturally-colonizing mons. A CD-ROM and booklet to (Above) Native American Studies language instructor Kenn Pitawanakwat poses dominant culture; and retaining Bresette Continued on Pg 4 go with the map can be checked with his NAS 101 class in front of the newly hung map in Whitman Hall commons. (Below) A portion of the map that includes the Upper Peninsula. out at the CNAS Resource Room. Alumni Spotlight - Tessa M. Reed close to my home, I felt safe in a little about how that was? Marquette and on the NMU cam- What was the program like back pus and this enabled me to focus then? Who taught, what classes, on my studies. etc. NN: What was your major/ REED: I took all of the courses minor? What degree did you were related to Native people earn? even before there was a Native REED: As an undergraduate I had Studies minor, so when the minor difficulty picking a major because I was organized in the Fall of 1994, I did not have a specific career in had all the credits I needed to mind. For the first few years I fo- claim it as a minor for my gradua- cused on fulfilling the liberal arts tion in 1995. My favorite classes NN: Where are you from / what is requirements. I also took courses were Ojibwe language taught by your tribal affiliation? in speech communications and on Don Chosa and Native American REED: I am Anishinaabe and a native topics as they were avail- Literature taught by Melisa Hearn. member of the Thunder Clan. I am able. As I recall, during my junior As an Anishinaabe in Anishinaabe a citizen of the Sault Ste Marie year, I finally chose to major in territory, I was very interested in public administration due to my learning about local Anishinaabek Ditibasin to Perform at NMU! Chippewa and a descendant of the Waganakising Odawa. I grew up in interest in policy analysis and history and culture but instead, it The second Upper Peninsula Folklife Festival opens with a Manistique, Michigan. tribal government. I eventually seemed to me, much of the focus concert on Thursday, March 12, in the Forest Roberts Thea- NN: Why did you choose NMU? earned a Bachelor of Science in was on American Indians of other tre at Northern Michigan University beginning at 7 p.m. REED: I decided to go to college public administration and a dou- areas in the United States. I hope Along with other folk artists, Ditibasin (rolling stones), will because I believed it would enable ble minor in Native American this has changed but I’ve also perform at this opening concert. Ditibasin consists of a me to have more career options. I studies and speech communica- come to appreciate the similarities group of young men from the Hannahville Indian Commu- wasn’t quite sure what I wanted tions. the Anishinaabek share with other nity. In late 1990s, the group began learning traditional hand drumming songs from an Norman Paul, an to do, I was searching for direction NN: It’s been reported you were Indigenous peoples of the world. elder in their community. Since then, they have been drumming and singing at pow wows throughout the and I enjoyed learning. I chose to the first NAS minor at NMU when Midwest, including the 17th annual Learning to Walk Together traditional pow wow at N.M.U. on March 14. attend NMU because of it was you graduated - could you tell us Alumni Spotlight continued on Page 9 4 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 13 spite the potential for underminers, NAS Minor Continued from Page 1. *NAS 497/498—Directed Studies in Native Bresette continued from page 3... we had serious issues we still American Studies (1-4 cr) Anishinaabe News traditional, land-based lifestyles of Additional courses include - An independent study by a qualified under- is made possible by the needed to work on. self-sufficiency despite the power- graduate. The study will be of a particular Northern Michigan University It also seemed like second nature Center for Native American Studies ful pressures of various resource *NAS 212 - MI/WI Tribes, Treaties and issue, person, topic or theme within Native for Walt to encourage others, In- Current Issues (4 cr) American Studies that is not explicitly ad- and members of the extraction multinationals with de- This course will closely examine the dressed within an existing NAS undergradu- Native American Student Association dian and non-Indian alike, to join in with the help of contributing writers cidedly different plans for the twenty-three federally recognized tribes ate course. on the Ojibwe-based ceremonies he and photographers. of Michigan and Wisconsin and how Northwoods. led. Although I do not wish to im- Everyone who came in contact treaties with the federal government One course was deleted - Anishinaabe News is published pute intentions, I assume he did this shaped their history and contemporary *NAS 287—Legal & Political History of when possible. with Walt has their own memo- because for him it was about bring- For example, in Walleye Warriors, political make up. Issues and topics Michigan Indian Education (2 cr) ries, their own perspectives on ing estranged communities to- including treaty rights, sovereignty, urban Letters to the Editor can be sent to: co-written with activist Rick him. In my view, as a girl growing gether in celebration of Ojibwe cul- communities, and tribal enterprises such Additional modifications to the Anishinaabe News Whaley, Walt puts forth a proposi- up in northern Wisconsin in the ture and of the land – that is, it was as casinos will also be explored. NAS minor include - Center for Native American Studies tion for re-making the Northwoods *Removing NAS 488—Native Northern Michigan University 1980s, Walt Bresette loomed lar- a means of grounding the Green/ 1401 Presque Isle economy into an economy based on *NAS 315 - History of Indian Boarding American Services Learning Project as a ger than life. He was and remains anti-mining/pro-treaty activism in Marquette, MI 49855 the environment, including jobs de- School Education (4 cr) capstone course. ( one of my few heroes, a person what gave definition to the region. The course tracks the complex history of riving from environmental clean-up, *Removing content area electives Editor-in-Chief who continues to be a mentoring One of my most vivid memories of the initiation, development, alteration, declaring the Northwoods as a pol- requirement BJ Bosco influence in my life. For me, he these ceremonies comes from a and demise of the federally mandated lution-free zone, and the develop- *Requiring Grade Point Average of 2.0 for was the Northwoods’ equivalent Sunrise Ceremony for Peace held in Indian boarding school education experi- Native American Studies minor. Contributing Writers ment of earth-friendly means of ence in the US and Canada instigated to Holly Berkstresser the spring of 1988 either before or of Martin Luther King, Jr. with an making a living. resolve “the Indian problem” in North BJ Bosco during the Ojibwe spearing season. Changes do not take affect until the Aimee Cree Dunn extra dash of spice. For example, The last time I saw Walt was less America. Intergenerational and contem- It was held by a northern Wisconsin porary repercussions, both positive and fall 2009 bulletin. Students who be- Sheila Devlin Walt was a dynamic speaker, mak- than a year before he walked on. I lake. I remember the morning blue negative, within indigenous societies are Ryan Goulet ing connections with varied gan NMU under a previous bulletin Sam Hill was working as a work-study stu- considered. of the sky, the spring-freshness of will still need to follow the previous Leora Tadgerson groups while speaking from his dent at the American Indian Learn- the air. And I remember most of all, heart. He was also an adamant ing Resource Center at the Univer- *NAS 320 - American Indians: Identity guidelines. If you would like to as the ceremony came to a close, Reprinted Article from advocate of non-violence. In addi- sity of Minnesota, Duluth, and we and Media Images (4 cr) learn more contact me via e-mail at Wisconsin State Journal the sudden rising of migizi (a bald tion, he often brought a certain were having a grand opening for Students will analyze the identity and [email protected]. Jason Stein eagle) from the pines around us. images of American Indians portrayed flamboyancy to his activism, such our newly expanded library. I was Without Walt’s openness to others within the historic and contemporary Contributing Editors as the time he trespassed on land pleasantly surprised to learn that and their involvement in such cere- media (film/television). Students will News from Wisconsin April Lindala condemned to become the site of Walt was our keynote speaker. Al- monies, many would have missed examine how the media perpetuates Continued from page 10. the Kennecott metallic sulfide though my mom, sister, grandma stereotypes and appropriates or distorts Photos that moment. BJ Bosco and I had been, briefly, at the KBIC cultural images, symbols, beliefs and Brian Bisonette, secretary- mine in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Walt was that point on the Arrow- Sam Hill takeover at Walt’s suggestion, I stories. Contributions by Native people to treasurer of the Lac Courte There he counted coup on a Ken- head of Change. He taught by ex- Sue Erickson hadn’t really seen him since I was a the media will also be explored. Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Bob Olsgard necott bulldozer with a war club ample the skill of never compromis- pre-teen, so I was positive he Ojibwe, said his tribe would like to (and others unknown) that had belonged to Blackhawk ing what you have to say while also *NAS 420 - Issues within the Representa- wouldn’t recognize me. I hung out tion of American Indians (4 cr) expand an innovative charter himself. A bit of style a là Walt. reaching out to widely diverse Advisor in the background, but by chance This course examines the histories, legacies school on its reservation that April Lindala He also used humor to lighten tense groups. Even though he was far out we both ended up on either side of and continuing debates regarding the teaches children from preschool situations or to call attention to in front, his ability to reach others display of Native Americans and especially Letters to the Editor and guest the cake, and, in reaching for our heavy truths. As a kid, I remember meant that as he moved forward how representations of Indians may reflect through the fourth grade largely in editorials do not necessarily reflect respective pieces, he asked, “Aren’t sitting in on talking circles he led. working for change, he brought oth- colonialist attempts of appropriation, Ojibwe. the opinion of Anishinaabe News, you one of Linda’s daughters?” I marginalization, and erasure of indigenous the Center for Native American Studies He’d often start these with a wel- ers with him. Some, more rooted in was as pleased as the punch I cultures as well as Native American resis- So far, that school has been able or Northern Michigan University. come, saying, “Welcome, every- the staid and accepted, were likely reached for next. It was over this tance, accommodation, and celebration. to carry on with its work without one!” and adding with a smile, “And surprised at where they found When submitting a letter, it must cake and punch that he told me direct state dollars but has strug- be signed with a return address. to any FBI agents and mining spies, themselves moving to and even *NAS 495/496—Special Topics in about a new project he and others Native American Studies (1-4 cr) gled with its plans to expand to We will consider welcome too!” Walt was aware of more surprised to find that, the way requests for anonymity. were launching, the Seventh Gen- A close study of a particular issue, topic higher grades, he said. the undercover element likely pre- Walt explained it, it made sense. eration Amendment movement, or theme within Native American Studies sent at activist events, and his hu- I hope someday to see other “Every year it’s a challenge to and he wanted to know if I was in- that is not emphasized or focused upon keep the funding levels that we mor called attention to that while dreams of Walt’s become a reality. in another existing undergraduate course terested in working on it. At the also reminding everyone that, de- within the realm of Native American have,” he said. 12 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 5 Bresette continued from previous page… Greens to a great extent, Walt has Student Spotlight: Connie Goudreau Native Report On PBS time I was shy and bashful but come to define what being Green NN: Where are you from? NN: What classes are you taking / wanted to be involved with the pro- means to me, and any Green Native Report is an informative GOUDREAU: I'm most recently have you taken? ject. Unfortunately, I never fol- group that lacks his style doesn’t magazine style series that cele- from Milwaukee, WI, but I'm a GOUDREAU: I took the Native lowed up in time, but that conver- seem truly Green. Physically Walt brates Native American culture military brat and have lived all American Experience class last se- sation still acts as an inspiration for may no longer dwell in this world, and heritage mainly in Minnesota. over the country. mester, loved it and decided to my work today. but his memory lives on. His spirit Features interviews with tribal NN: What is your tribal affilia- continue for a minor with the de- Walt’s gentle humor and dyna- and dynamic influence remain elders, and talks to some of the tion? partment. I'm currently taking mism define my activism ideal, strong. A Northwoods’ legend, most powerful and influential GOUDREAU: I'm a member of the story telling of Native American and his plethora of ideas for Walt is one of those heroes to be leaders of Indian Country today. Chippewa Tribe of Sault St. Marie, women and Anishinabe language, where we need to go as a society featured in stories told around MI. they are my two favorite classes in order to come to a life of re- northern campfires on warm sum- NN: Why NMU?: this semester! spect for the Earth, define what it mer nights, remembered in cere- GOUDREAU: A lot of my family is NN: How did you get involved means to be a visionary. Likewise, monies, and carried always in the from the UP, it had a beautiful with NASA? GOUDREAU: Well, I just started, so growing up where Walt’s influ- hearts of people who love and campus, I loved the Cross Country GOUDREAU: I got involved with I'm not really sure... but its fun to ence impacted the Wisconsin fight for Mother Earth. END and Track Coaches, and they had NASA because I wanted to be- recruit people and get them more The series attracts to both a gen- great academic scholarship oppor- come more involved in my Native involved in celebrating Native eral and tribal audience, promot- tunities. community. I've always been in- American culture. ing understanding between cul- NN: Year and major? terested in my heritage but never NN: What do you hope to accom- tures, tribes and reservations… GOUDREAU: I'm a freshman but I lived in such an active native com- plish as president of NASA? offering a venue for the stories of am graduating in 2011, so I'm kind munity. Recruit more members for the challenge and success coming of a sophomore. I'm a Pre-law NN: What do you like most about club and get the campus more from tribal communities… and major with a minor in Native being NASA president? aware of the club and its events. educating public television view- American Studies. ers about the culture and tradi- tions of native citizens. Native

Report is hosted and Lifeguards co-produced by Stacey Are Needed Thunder, an enrolled Are you a certified member of lifeguard seeking the Red Lake Nation, and summer employment? co-hosted and co-produced by Tadd Johnson who is an enrolled member of the Dates needed are Bois Forte Band of Chippewa. The June 13 - 26. Native Report season consists of fifteen episodes and airs Sundays at 11 a.m. (ET) beginning April 5 Please contact April Lindala at [email protected] about working (on WNMU, Public TV 13 in the as a lifeguard for the annual Native American Summer Youth Upper Peninsula). programs hosted by the NMU Center for Native American Studies Full descriptions of each episode are available on the web at and the Hannahville Indian School. www.nativereport.org. 6 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 11 Biidadjimowin - NAS Language Students Bring Their Stories - Part I of II

Led by Language professor Kenn Pitawanakwat, NAS 295: Anishinaabe Language: Winter Survival is a Saturday morning class in which students spend the day snowshoeing in the woods, learning words and meanings for the UP wilderness up close and in person. The following are pieces of their journey they chose to share. Part II will be featured in the next issue of Anishianabe News. All photos by Sam Hill

Aanii, Boozhoo. Sheila Devlin ndi Hello. My name is Sheila Devlin. -zhnikaaz Goulais Ziibiing ndoo- I’m from Goulais River. Before njibaa. Jibwaa aandoodegzi- moving to Marquette I went to yaanh Marquette, ngii-skooniw school in my home. In 1995, I fin- endaayaanh. Wi pii 1995, niizh ished two courses. Mary Ann Cor- Ahnii, niin Holly Berkstresser. Niin courses ngii-giizhtoonan. Mary biere taught me. Mary Ann and I kinoo’ma’agan in Ojibwemowin. In Ann Corbiere ngii- kinoomaag.. wrote letters. These days, I write, I bezhik of my classes niinwi went Mary Ann Corbiere miinwa niin read, but I’ll be happy if I speak koodjiing to show shoe. It is amaz- gwii-maajiibiihgemi. Nongo, Nishnaabemwin. At this place, ing, because I love the kodjiing! The ndoo-zhibiige, ndoo-gindaas. NMU, I go to school once again. other giizhigad we went out to the Ngak-chi-nendam shwii go Ken Pitawanakwat teaches us. Dead Zeebee, a zeebee that flows giizhpin Nishnaabemoyaanh. What do we usually do on Satur- into Kitchigamee. Bezhik of the guys Maampii, NMU, ndoo-skooniw days? We go around snowshoeing in our class brought his nimoozh, aanj miinwaa. Kenn Pitawanak- in the woods. It is isn’t far and al- who became our guide. Niinwi hiked wat nda-kinoomaagonaa. ways it’s a beautiful place. We all over aazhibikoong and through the Aaniish ennakiiying kwo Maanii- build a fire. We’re careful. We’re wiigwas along the nibi. There were giizhgag? Ndoo-baa-aagamakemi successful when finding wood. It’s waa-waa-shkesh tracks through the dibaakiing. Gaawii waaswa-znoo not very hard but we work hard. snow along our trail and giigonh in miinwaa pane gnaajwan odi. Ryan and Levi usually do the cook- the zeebee. A few miles into the woods niinwi stopped to eat and Nboodwemi. Gwiingezimi. Gdoo- ing. Once, Ken brought potatoes warm by a shkode. We kina helped gchi-gshki’ewzimi mkamang for us. Holly fried bread. Before find dry wood and made a shko- waaboodewe’aang (mtigook). eating, Joe sang. He sings well. We dekaan in the snow. When the Gaawii aapji gwo znaga-sinoo. have a good time. After we eat, shkode was going meshkoozid we Ndoo-gchi-nakiimi. Ryan miin- Ken speaks. “Let’s go!” he says. offered some semaa and started waa Levi kwo jiibaakwewag. Too bad we have to go back. We’re making miidjim. Everyone shared Ngoding, piniin ngii-biinaan happy when it is Saturday. Ken what they brought and we warmed Kenn. Holly gii-zaasgokwaadaan helps us. Thank you everyone. potatoes in the shkode. Everything bkwezhigan. Jibwaa-wiisniying, minomaate and minopogozi. After gii-ngam-wo Joe. putting the shkode out we hiked up Ntaa-ngamwo. Ndoo to the Dead Zeebee falls. The falling -mnowendaagzimi. nibi was beautiful! When we started Shkwaa-wiisniying, saying “biingech” niinwa decided Kenn kida, “Aambe gdaa-nigiiyehmi. The hike back was dash!”. Gisaach aab- fun since it was mostly downhill and dek wii-nigii’e’aang. niinwi got to slide down the chi’ tall Ngi-chi-nendaami pii slopes. I learned a lot and really en- Maanii-giizhgag. Kenn joyed our adventure kodjiing. Niin naadmaagonaa. Miig- really looking forward to going out wech. miinwa. Chi’miigwech! 10 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 7 News from Wisconsin Rep. Robin Vos, R-Caledonia, the provide $250,000 a year for com- Leora Tadgerson Too bad Levi wasn't there to cook Aanii, boozhoo. Dizhnikaas Ryan ranking Assembly Republican on petitive grants to tribes and school Aanii boozhoo! the Mkademinaabo (coffee)! next Goulet. NDoonjii Chi- wiikwe- Doyle Budget Includes Money the Legislature’s budget commit- districts, which would work to- So far in our NAS 295 class, niinwi time. He is a pretty good Jiibaakwe toong. Nishtana-ashi-niizhwaaswi to Preserve Dwindling Tribal tee, said the proposal was likely gether to teach students. have learned a lot of nature nini (cook). Niin not sure who it dansaboongis. Gii-aagamakemi Languages worthwhile. In recent years, language pro- terms, also terms that revolve was who brought out the Semaa Saturday. Aabiish? Nibo waa- Reprinted with permission. grams have been paid for by the around the winter season. This (tobacco) but I am very thankful, gaming. Ngiin-chii-maagzide gaa- Originally printed in the Wisconsin “But Vos said it was less important tribes themselves, with some help past Saturday, we went Gdaaki chi-miigwech! it is hikes like these shkwa-aagameke’aa. Gii-shpaa State Journal. than holding down taxes and pay- from federal and private grants. (up the hill) to Forestville Falls that always help me clear my dip aki. Gii-shpaagonagaa gdaa-ki. Jason Stein ing for other priorities that he said Phil Shopodock, chairman of the and had a blast. Not only were (head) and de-stress. We just need Macombii-miikan geye agii- [email protected] Doyle did not adequately fund in we Gidaaki (on top of a hill) but temgad. Aazhibik gii-mashkoodin. Forest County Potawatomi, said to remember to wear a warm Biis- his budget, such as providing ac- we were also Niisaaki (bottom of Gegaa gwo gii-t’kaa sin. Gii- his tribe had been able to fund its kawaagan (coat), Midaasan (socks) In a time of intense financial pres- tive electronic monitoring of all a hill) Aasmidaaki (side of a hill) mitigwakaa: Giizhik, wiigwaas, sure, Gov. Jim Doyle (WI) has set language programs through its Mijikaawinak (gloves) and Wiik- sex offenders within a certain successful Milwaukee casino but and Agaami-ziibi (across a river). I wiinsik. Waawaashkeshook gii- aside $250,000 a year in his state class. really like the fact that we are waan (hat)! makwe’oog. Way’ya gii-zhiishiigi. budget proposal to restart a long- that, particularly in the current Although we had a lot of fun on economic downturn, less fortu- able to be biinji (in) Mtigwaakiing Ngii-boodwemi. Bishgendaan standing state program to help “I believe in the idea, but it’s just the hike, there was always a few nate tribes were forced to choose (in a forest) while we learn. We shkode. Gii-manjigemi. Piniik ngii- American Indian tribes save their not more important than other people telling us, Bekaa! (wait!) between funding basic needs and learned the difference between mwanaanig (we ate spuds), na- endangered languages. things that were cut,” Vos said. Towards the end, a lot of people ensuring that their language and Gdaaki (up the hill) and shpiming gish, zaasakokwaadek bakwezhi- began to Ekzi (be tired) and they culture survive. (up high). gan, wiiyaas, cheese and crackers. Only about one-half of 1 percent The proposal won praise from There was a lot of different mti- had to Nwebi (to rest). but it Gii-aan-mijoon nibo ziibi. Gii- of state tribal members are native tribal leaders gathered at the “It’s the rock. It’s the foundation,” goog all around us. A few of them turned out to be a great time!! biisijiwon. Ngii-wiinges. Miinwaa, speakers of the state’s five native Capitol Tuesday for the annual Shopodock said of the importance were Wiigwaas (white or paper kina gegoo gii- languages, with some counting State of the Tribes Address. of tribes’ languages to their cul- birch) and Wiinzik (yellow birch). genaajiwan. Mii dash gii just a handful of elderly speakers, “I appreciate that the governor, tures. I was surprised to see how much -ni-gii’eyaang. Naahow. the Wisconsin State Journal with what he’s facing, could find Mkwam (ice) there was out there Hello, my name is Ryan reported in a series in June. $250,000 for tribal languages,” During the last state budget crisis on the falls. Goulet. I come from Big said Lisa Waukau, chairwoman of As far as you could see, every- Bay. I am twenty seven. The Democratic governor said in 2003, the then Republican- the Menominee tribe, whose lan- controlled Legislature cut thing was Waabshkaande (white). Last Saturday I went that, in spite of the $5.9 billion guage has only some 15 speakers It was a very mino time. Some- snowshoeing. Where? budget shortfall he faced in writ- $220,000 a year that had been and is spoken nowhere else in the going to pay for tribal language one brought Zaazigikwadenhan Dead River. My feet ing his budget, the state needed world. (fry bread, plural)! Also some Wii- stunk after snowshoe- to act now or risk losing the op- and culture programs. That cut eliminated a program dating to yaas (meat). it was mino. ing. There was a steep portunity to save a part of its Unlike the European languages 1980 and came at a time when hill. There was deep shared heritage. that are part of Wisconsin’s tribes were just starting innova- snow on top of the hill. There was shared heritage, such as German tive teaching methods that are an ice road. There was frozen It’s an example of one of the and Norwegian, tribal languages helping young children become rock. There was a mild wind. things where if you don’t put can’t be learned by traveling to fluent speakers for the first time in There were many trees: cedar, something in and you let it die you some place outside the state more than a generation. white birch, and yellow birch. never get another chance,” said where they’re still being widely There were tracks of a deer. Doyle, who as a young lawyer used, Waukau said. Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, who has Someone took a leak. We made a once worked with Navajo- four Ojibwe reservations in his fire. I like fire. We ate on the run. speaking clients on their tribe’s “Once native languages are dead northern Wisconsin district, said I ate potatoes, bologna, fry bread, Arizona reservation. “This is, in here, there’s nowhere we can go,” he supported bringing the pro- cheese and crackers. There was dollar terms, a very small item in she said. gram back to help protect a cul- turbulent water. There was fine the overall budget. But it’s enough tural legacy for both the tribes and misty water. I was careful. Every- that we can keep this alive and Doyle would use money paid to the state as a whole. thing was nice. Then we went keep it moving in the right direc- the state from tribal casinos to home. tion.” Continued on page 12. 8 Anishinaabe News Anishinaabe News 9 Alumni spotlight continued from page 3 1999 I went searching for a Native worked as a teaching assistant NASEI Joins in on Language Class Hike Studies graduate program at the for several Anishinaabekwe eld- NN: What are some of your favor- By Sam Hill —On Saturday, February 7, the Native American Student ers at Trent University and trav- ite memories of your time at University of Michigan. In an at- Empowerment Initiative (NASEI) joined Kenn Pitawanakwat’s lan- eled to Aotearoa (New Zealand) NMU? tempt to prepare for the Graduate guage class for an outdoor snowshoeing adventure. to the World Indigenous Peoples REED: I have a lot of fond memo- Record Examination (GRE)I enrolled Everyone met in Whitman Hall 141, Conference on Education. I’ve ries of the people I met at NMU. As in Washtenaw Community College and Kenn let his students decide taught an Indigenous Cultures one of the founding members and to take some refresher math where we were going to be explor- and Communities course at Trent co-presidents of the Anishinaabe courses and ended up enrolling in ing. One of his students suggested University and I am currently de- Club I had a great time meeting na- their Internet Professional Program Hogsback hill. The people who signing an online course for Bay tive students from across the coun- and began hosting an Anishinaabe- showed up for NASEI all had snow- Mills Community College. In the try. Each year we worked together mowin internet radio show. In the shoes and/or didn’t think we future I hope to be employed by to put on a spring pow-wow. I fall of 1999 I went of a field trip needed them because the snow tribal communities, tribal colleges worked in the kitchen to help pre- with the University of Michigan’s was sticky, and they said the trail and or Native Studies depart- pare for the feast. I was so busy Native American Student Associa- would already be packed down. So, ments. I am passionate about the Dreamcatcher Workshop cooking it seemed I didn’t even see everyone carpooled out to the trail. tion students to the Aboriginal Mu- revitalization of Anishinaabe lan- the pow-wow, but that was a great As we began our hike, Kenn told us sic Awards, Educational Days and guage and culture and the posi- The Native American Student learning lesson about how to be a not to go so quickly so we can learn Skydome pow-wow in Toronto, On- tive impact that they have in Empowerment Initiative (NASEI) host and take care of guests. I also as we go, and he would tell us how tario. While I was there, I visited strengthening our Anishinaabek Dream catcher workshop was enjoyed the family atmosphere of to say different things in the lan- the Indigenous Studies PhD pro- communities and the nation. cancelled on Wednesday, February the students who took the Ojibwe guage. It took us about an hour and gram recruitment booth, I applied NN: Have you been back to visit? 18 due to inclement weather. language course. I suppose another a half to reach the summit of Hogs- for the program the following year Had much changed? Traci Belair (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe), positive memory is that as a new back, and when we got to the top, and in the fall of 2001 I began my REED: I have been back to NMU workshop facilitator, will be hosting mother I never felt uncomfortable one of Kenn’s students gave us some strawberries that he’d brought several times and I was surprised the first class of the workshop on bringing my infant son, Brighton, graduate studies in Peterborough, along. On our way back down, we found a nice flat area to build a to see the construction of sky- Wednesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. in with me, whether it was to an class Ontario. During the summers I en- fire and some of Kenn’s students cooked up some coffee, and walks and I heard there were un- Whitman Hall 141. or to a student meeting, everyone rolled in Nishnaabemwin courses warmed up some meat for tacos. Kenn also asked that Scottie Mas- derground tunnels! That is just Materials will be provided as well was supportive just like an ex- through Bay Mills Community Col- ters, who had brought his daughter on the hike also, to sing a song unbelievable! Why back in the as some refreshments. To sign up tended family. I really enjoyed be- lege and worked as a teaching as- while we were enjoying the fire. I took many pictures of our adven- day when I went to NMU we call the Center for Native American ing a student at NMU and being sistant at Lakehead University’s ture, and everyone seemed to enjoy this serene workout in the walked to school each day in 10 Studies at 227-1397 or stop by. apart of that native circle that in- Native Language Instructors Pro- snow. To learn more about NASEI activities, call 227-1397. feet of blowing snow, uphill, both We’re in 112 Whitman Hall. cluded many students and nearby gram in Thunderbay, Ontario. I’ve ways! community members. Roadtrip Canceled NN: Where have your feet taken you since graduating from NMU? Indian Taco Fundraiser The Center for Native American Studies and the NASEI staff regret to announce that due to schedul- REED: Since graduating from NMU The Marquette Area Public Schools Native American Educa- ing conflicts, the NASEI Road Trip downstate to the in 1995, I have traveled and tion Program is hosting an Indian Taco fundraiser on Satur- Ziibiwing Art Center and Ann Arbor pow wow during worked in many Anishinaabe com- day, March 7 at the Marquette Masonic Temple from 1-4 p.m. the weekend of April 10-12 has been canceled. This munities. In 1995 to 1997 I lived at There will also be a silent auction. Items being auctioned is in part due to the change of dates of the “Dance and worked for the Keweenaw Bay include an autographed Green Bay Packer’s football, Detroit for Mother Earth” pow wow which has been re- Indian Community as a substance Lion’s football, and Redwing’s Hockey Puck. schedule to April 4-5. It has also changed locales to abuse counselor. In 1997 I moved Tickets will be on sale at the door, or in advance by calling Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We hope to my maternal grandmother’s 906-225-5387 (cash only please). Costs are $8 for adults, $3 that you will consider attending some other pow wows when you have a chance. Please share stories and community, the Waganakising for children under 12, $5 for students with ID, and $5 for sen- photos with Nish News. In addition to the NMU pow wow on March 14, Central Michigan University is Odawak to provide substance ior citizens. All funds raised at this fundraiser will be used to hosting their annual competition pow wow the weekend of March 21 & 22. Be sure to keep an eye on the send Native Youth to a culture and leadership camp. CNAS website to get all of the pow wow dates for the spring and summer. Happy dancing! abuse counseling services there. In