- Details
- By Levi Rickert
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.
\
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsUS Presidents in Their Own Words Concerning American Indians
Native News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
TIME Magazine Names "Braiding Sweetgrass" Author Robin Wall Kimmerer to Its "100 Most Influential People of 2025” List
Native News Weekly (April 27, 2025): D.C. Briefs
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
