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This event is presented by Mid Michigan College in partnership with Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, Central Michigan University, Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways, and 7th Generation with a focus on Cultures, Contributions, & Resilience: Indigenous Peoples Day honors the past, present, and futures of Native peoples and celebrates the cultural contributions of Native peoples.

10AM-2PM MONDAY, OCTOBER 9

Mt. Pleasant Campus | Community Room

Indigenous Peoples Day stands as a testament to the growing global recognition of the need to honor and uplift the voices, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It is a crucial step toward rectifying historical inaccuracies and addressing the systemic injustices that Indigenous communities have endured for centuries.

By celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, societies around the world are not only embracing a more comprehensive understanding of history but also committing to a more just and equitable future for all.

Questions? Contact Donna Sinclair at jsinclair@midmich.edu or (989) 708-0889.

NOTE: This is a TENTATIVE agenda. The speakers, times, and order may change.

  • 10am Opening with Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribal Council Representatives
  • 10:10am Drummers & Singers with Onion Creek Drum Circle
  • 10:15am Welcome by President Tim Hood, Mid Michigan College; and President Robert Davies, Central Michigan University
  • 10:25am Welcome by Lt. Governor of Michigan Garlin Gilchrist II
  • 10:35am Welcome by Senator Roger Hauck
  • 10:40am Welcome by Amy Perschbacher, Mayor of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
  • 10:45am Speaker Elijah Elk, Seventh Generation Program, Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe
  • 11am Speaker William Johnson, Director of Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways
  • 11:30am Keynote Speaker Melissa Isaac, Gizhwaasod: Protector of the Young Michigan Department of Education
  • 12:40pm Break
  • 1pm Speaker Nathan Isaac, Owner ReZonance Productions
  • 1:50pm Closing Prayer
  • 1:55pm Drummers & Singers with Onion Creek Drum Circle
  • 2pm Event Concludes

  • Seven Grandfather Teachings: Thinking about how Native American cultures emphasize harmony with nature, endurance of suffering, respect and non-interference toward others, a strong belief that humanity is inherently good and should be respected for their individual decisions.
  • Anishinaabe Principles of Character: Love, Respect, Bravery, Truth, Honesty, Humility, and Wisdom.
  • Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways Traveling Exhibit
  • Onion Creek Drum Circle
  • Inter-Tribal Round Dances

Sponsored By

  • Mid Michigan College Foundation
  • Mt. Pleasant Chamber of Commerce
  • Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum