GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — West Michigan students will be learning about Indigenous culture from Native American community members as part of the Grand Rapids Public Museum's Anishinaabe Culture Day.
Each year, local students come to the museum for the Anishinaabe Culture Day, which recognizes Indigenous Peoples' Day. The event will be jam-packed with activities, including hands-on experiences, presentations, performances and more.
Native American community members will be leading students through traditional practices like storytelling, pottery, basket weaving and corn husk doll-making. There will also be traditional dance and drumming performances, and a scavenger hunt encouraging students to explore the museum to learn more.
Lastly, students will visit the museum's "Anishinabek: The People of This Place" exhibit, which features Native American artifacts and an in-depth look at the Odawa, Potawatomi and Ojibwe peoples.
Museum officials are hoping students leave the event with a deeper appreciation for Native American cultures.
"We are excited to host our annual Anishinaabe Culture Day, where we collaborate with tribal leaders throughout the state and beyond to share the culture and traditions of the first people of this place," said Rob Schuitema, Director of Public Programs at the GRPM. "Area students and museum guests will experience history and culture while exploring and interacting with members of the Anishinaabe community."
Anishinaabe Culture Day is Wednesday, Oct. 16. While the day of events is fully booked, you can still visit the museum and see the "Anishinabek: The People of This Place" exhibit. Some interactive displays will be available.
To learn more about the GRPM, click here.
