Monday, October 12, marks Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a national observance recognizing the histories, cultures, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples. In Leland, community partners invite the public to gather for a free, family-friendly day celebrating and learning about Anishinaabek history and culture.
The day will culminate at 6:00 PM at the Old Art Building with featured speaker James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw, a descendant of Turtle Mountain, international speaker, author, educator, and creator of Ojibwe Word of the Day. Vukelich is the author of The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings and is known for sharing connections between Anishinaabemowin (the Ojibwe language), culture, and traditional teachings. Books will be available for purchase and signing following the program.
A Day of Culture, Community & Learning
Programs throughout the Leland Cultural District will begin at 12:45 PM with drumming by the Dusty Bears Singers, accompanied by Tribal community dancers. The afternoon continues with Indigenous Knowledges films, food, artists and educational opportunities, along with free museum admission and exhibits.
Schedule:
12:45–1:45 PM | Drumming & Dancing
Dusty Bear Singers and Tribal Community Dancers
3:00 PM | Indigenous Knowledges Film Hour
Featuring short films from the Leelanau Conservancy, the Kchi Wiikwedong History Marker Project, and This Basket Is My Ancestor by the Leelanau Historical Society.
4:00–6:00 PM | Food, Art & Educational Opportunities
Indigenous food with Tanya Raphael, and other Educational learning opportunities.
11:00 AM-6:00 PM | Leelanau Historical Society Museum
Free museum admission, including the Traditional Anishinaabek Arts Room.
6:00 PM | Featured Speaker: James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw
Old Art Building | Book sales and signing
The event is hosted by the Old Art Building, Leelanau Historical Society, Leland Library, Fishtown Preservation Society, Friends of the Leland Township Library, Leelanau Conservancy, and Leelanau Investing For Teens (LIFT).