Sage and its smoke are used for purification. This medicine is for ceremonies to purify the environment and those in attendance.
Protecting the Neshnabek from their destructive pasts, Mamogosnan [Creator] bestowed two gifts to the people. First was spiritual strength in the form of our ancient ceremonies, providing balance amid the spiritual and physical elements of life. Second was our traditional Wdodamewan [clan system], preserving and maintaining spiritual and social order among our people. Some of our oldest clans are the …
The rank of warrior among Potawatomi was one of great honor and responsibility. Those who were victorious in battle were given the title of Wédasé, meaning brave or strong hearted. Often, they became members of the village warrior society, defending and policing the community. A rite of passage, warrior training began at an early age. Young boys were taught by …
The cold, harsh winters of the Great Lakes, inspired stories of the Windego, a man-eating creature that hunted in blizzards, possessing and devouring the ill willed.
Sweet grass and its smoke are used for purification and to beget positive energy. It is considered a gift from and the hair of Mother Earth, gathered and braided to pay homage.
The Woodland or Nishnabé School of Art is a unique and distinctly Indigenous artistic expression that fuses cultural ideals and symbolism, drawing inspiration from traditional oral stories and knowledge, with a variety of contemporary mediums. Rooted in Indigenous understanding, the artistic style is also known as Legend or Medicine Painting, as works illustrate the physical and spiritual symbioses between the …
Similar to quoits, the precursor to modern horseshoes, Yuhyouhtchechick and its sub-forms are a popular traditional game played by tribes throughout the United States. Each tribe has their own respective rules and equipment, but all are played in similar fashion. Within Potawatomi communities, each player pitches a pre-determined number of small flat stones at an upright target, the winner having …
During bbon, Bodéwadmi communities gather to play a centuries old sport called zhoshméwen or snowsnake. In the past, snowsnake was played not only for amusement, but for spiritual and therapeutic means. It is thought that the comradery amongst players remedied the sick. Games can last for several hours and are played individually or in teams. Each player is equipped with …