Southfield Celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day and National Native American Heritage Month with Educational Programs

Exploring Southfield’s Rich Native American Heritage

SOUTHFIELD — This past October, the Southfield Public Library celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day in a meaningful way by hosting a presentation led by Darla Van Hoey, the president of the Southfield Historical Society. The timing of the event was perfect, as we are now stepping into National Native American Heritage Month. With many exciting Native American educational programs on the horizon, the library is taking an active role in honoring and educating the community about Indigenous cultures.

Upcoming Programs Highlighting Native American Stories

On November 14, the library will feature Deborah Choate Shepherd, who will share her experiences and stories as a Native American woman. This presentation is set for 6 p.m. at the Southfield Public Library, located at 26300 Evergreen Road. On November 25, part of the library’s Gardening Guru series, Rosebud Schneider will discuss “Agriculture and Food Security Among the Anishinaabe Tribes of Michigan” at 6:30 p.m. These events are designed to deepen our understanding of Native American contributions and traditions.

Diving Deep into Potawatomi Culture

During her presentation, Van Hoey dove into the significant cultural aspects of the Potawatomi people. She explained how the four compass points are woven into the fabric of Potawatomi daily life, prayers, and ceremonies:

• East: Symbolizes birth and rebirth, representing guidance and new understanding.
• South: Represents preparing for the future, embracing loyalty and sensitivity.
• West: Embodies self-acceptance and spiritual connections with nature.
• North: Reflects wisdom from elders and the notion of survival during tough times.

Moreover, Van Hoey highlighted the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which include humility, truth, wisdom, love, bravery, respect, and honesty — principles that guide the Potawatomi way of life.

Creating a Potawatomi Exhibit at the Historical Museum

With the help of a $500 grant from the Michigan Humanities Council, Van Hoey and the Southfield Historical Society have successfully created a lasting exhibit on the Potawatomi’s history at the Southfield Historical Museum, located at 26080 Berg Road. This exhibit contains various Native American artifacts, including sweetgrass, arrowheads, and black ash baskets, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich traditions of the Potawatomi people.

“Where did this group of Potawatomi end up?” Van Hoey pondered, reflecting on the historical context that led to their migration and assimilation into other tribes following the Treaty of St. Joseph in 1827. This question underscores the ongoing relevance of Indigenous histories and the importance of keeping these narratives alive.

Shepherd’s Personal Storytelling Journey

A compelling highlight of the library’s upcoming events is Shepherd’s storytelling session. As a Madison Heights resident and granddaughter of an Ojibwe woman and a Cherokee man, she brings a personal touch to her stories. Shepherd emphasizes how her experiences growing up as a Native American in Detroit and the painful legacies of residential schools shaped her desire to share this heritage.

“I want people to remember the voices of this place that are still here,” Shepherd expressed, capturing the mission of her storytelling sessions. For Shepherd, storytelling is not just about recounting the past but is also a way to foster connections and educate others about the ongoing presence of Native American communities.

Farming, Food Security, and Reclaiming Heritage

On the other hand, Rosebud Schneider is committed to promoting Indigenous agricultural practices in her talk on November 25. As a member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, she advocates for food sovereignty and the cultivation of Indigenous crops. Schneider’s work emphasizes reclaiming traditional methods and knowledge to ensure that future generations have access to their culturally significant foods.

“It’s huge when Native people reclaim these practices,” Schneider noted, reflecting the broader impact of reconnecting with Indigenous heritage. Her efforts are part of a larger movement to foster community resilience and to celebrate Native traditions through food.

Stay Informed and Get Involved

As Southfield continues to explore its Native American history, residents are encouraged to participate and learn about the rich tapestry of cultures that shaped the area. For more details on upcoming events at the Southfield Public Library or to schedule a visit to the Potawatomi exhibit at the historical museum, be sure to reach out and be part of this enlightening journey into our shared past.