DOWAGIAC, Mich. — There was excitement in the air as over 5,000 Potawatomi citizens gathered in southwest Michigan this past week. They were there for the 2024 “Mawtheshnowen,” a Potawatomi word for gathering.
Hosted by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the Potawatomi Gathering kicked off on Monday with language workshops. On Thursday, Potawatomi leaders met to discuss economic development in order to improve their tribal business enterprises. And, then on Friday, Potawatomi nation elected leaders met to discuss commonalities and to wordsmith the language for the newly formed Potawatomi Confederacy.
“As Potawatomi people, we have a diverse and varied history that has separated us historically. But 30 years ago, we made a powerful decision to unite as Potawatomi people again,’’ Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Chairwoman Rebecca Richards said.
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Chairwoman Rebecca Richards
Beginning on Friday evening, three powwows were held. On Friday night, some 450 dancers registered to dance with fellow Potawatomi tribal citizens from the various Potawatomi bands from around the Indian Country.
