November is Indigenous Peoples’ Month not only in our beautiful state of Michigan, but also the United States as a whole. We here at LIVE. LOVE. LOCAL. MICHIGAN™ do not believe that we should designate only one specific month to celebrate the diverse cultures of our Indigenous peoples’ of this land, including the 574 Native American Indian tribes, their histories, and their contributions to a land they have called home for thousands of years – but something we should do always, all year round. Here in Michigan, we celebrate 12 out of the 574 tribes that are designated with special status under federal law and treaties. We stand on the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabe, Ojibwe, Ottawa, Potawatomi, and others. These tribes are stewards with a deep spiritual connection to our land. Their languages and traditions have been passed down through the ages, as has their resilience and wisdom. We must appreciate their vital role in shaping not only the culture and identity of Michigan, but the United States as a whole. Support indigenous businesses, engage with their art, stories, and traditions – all year round, not just in November.
Let’s not just reflect this month on the indelible mark on our state’s history from our indigenous tribes, but let this month be a catalyst for those of you reading this to take action to learn from their voices, to make/strengthen a commitment to reconciliation, respect, and collaboration; to recognize their plight to address historical injustices, protect sacred sites – such as the Great Lakes – and promote cultural preservation. We have a shared responsibility to be better stewards of our land and environment – and of each other – and to build a more inclusive future.
The profile image is a 19th Century engraving by Alfred Bobbett entitled Pontiac’s Council
