Dear GVSU community,
Each November, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the histories, traditions, and stories of Native and Indigenous peoples across this land. Established in 1990, this month invites all of us to reflect on the deep heritage, resilience, and strength of Native communities that have shaped, and continue to shape, our nation.
At Grand Valley, we recognize the People of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Bodéwadmi peoples, on whose land we are gathered. The Three Fires People are Indigenous to this region, which means Grand Valley's campuses are amongst their ancestral territory. As guests here, we are called to practice right relations: to honor the histories and traditions of the people who originated here first, who are still here, and who continue to care for the land. This acknowledgment is an important first step, and we commit to continued learning and action toward justice and reconciliation.
The Native American community is essential to both our history and our ongoing efforts. Through our division's partnership with the Native American Advisory Council (NAAC; Gchi Booskamgaad),we partner to deliver on our commitment to Native American students, faculty, staff and community members. NAAC advises and advocates for Native perspectives and fosters strong relationships between the university and Native communities, both on- and off-campus. Together, we are building upon a shared vision of education that respects tribal sovereignty, uplifts Native students and families, and fosters belonging for all.
Last week, Dr. Anton Treuer’s visit to campus shared powerful insights into individual truths, higher education's role in supporting the success of Indigenous students, and the importance of having conversations to build understanding of one another. Thank you to all who supported this event, by coordinating, attending, or sharing it with your colleagues and students. You can read more about Treuer's talk in GVNext.
Finally, as we close the month, we also acknowledge the National Day of Mourning, observed on the fourth Thursday of November. While many gather on this day in celebration, Native communities use this day to reflect on the painful history of colonization and to honor the strength and survival of Indigenous peoples. Let us join in that reflection with empathy and understanding.
Wilma Mankiller, who spent her life advocating for the rights of American Indians and was the first woman elected Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, once said: “The secret of our success is that we never, never give up.” Her words call us to persist in our collective pursuit of equity and respect for all cultures.
Thank you for being a community that listens, learns, and honors the voices that make us whole.
With gratitude,
