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Spring Institute for Youth Services 2023 Land Acknowledgment & Resources

Land Acknowledgment Statement

As those in the library profession gather to learn and work together today, we wish to recognize the Ottawa and Pottawatomi tribes whose traditional land we are gathered upon today. The name "Muskegon" is derived from the Ottawa Indian term "Masquigon" meaning "marshy river" or "swamp."

To recognize the land is an expression of gratitude and appreciation, and also a way of honoring the elders and native inhabitants, both past and present, who have lived and worked on the land from time long-established. We take this time to recognize the painful history of genocide, displacement, migration and settlement that brings us together.

MLA is dedicated to improving community relationships and making our organization a more supportive and inclusive place for Native and Indigenous voices and perspectives. We encourage everyone to learn the histories of this land, to look at who has and does not have access to its resources, and to examine your own place, abilities, and obligations within this process of reparative work that is necessary to promote a more equitable and socially just world.

MLA has added Indigenous resources and history of this region on our event website and we will continue to recognize and support the sovereignty of Michigan’s Indian nations and Indigenous Peoples when we gather to learn and work together. In addition, we are making a small donation to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians.

Resources

Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians
"Bill in Congress would 'validate' the identity of a tiny west Michigan Indian tribe" from the Detroit News

Visit the Old Indian Cemetery historical site in downtown Muskegon
"Muskegon's Centuries-Old (1750) Indian Burial Ground" from WFMK