Jennifer Jones

Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways

Grant Awarded: $6,500

The Ziibiwing Center is a non-profit cultural learning center and museum owned and operated by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe (SCIT) of Michigan. It was created to promote the belief that the culture, diversity and spirit of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan and other Great Lakes Anishinabek must be recognized, perpetuated, communicated and supported.

As part of this effort, the Ziibiwing Center worked with Jennifer Jones to develop an 8th grade supplementary curriculum guide, titled “American Indian Boarding Schools: An Exploration of Global Ethnic and Cultural Cleansing.” The guide is being presented by Ziibiwing staff to eight schools near the SCIT’s reservation and mailed to 12 federally recognized tribes, two historic Michigan tribes, 13 libraries near SCIT reservations, 37 tribal colleges and targeted educational centers for indigenous youth outside of the United States. While closing the wounds of the past, educators and students are helping to create a safe learning environment that welcomes diverse ethnicities, religions and educational abilities.