Native American Heritage Month

Listing of events

Our campus-wide calendar includes events from multiple hosts and sponsors. When available, see event links below for details, and contact event organizers with inquiries about specific events.

HERITAGE MONTHS

Native American Heritage Month Symposium 2026*

November 4, 2026  |  6:00-8:30 pm
Rogel Ballroom, Michigan Union 2nd Floor
Hosted by the Ross School of Business Native American Strategy Initiative

What does it mean to be a good neighbor in the spaces where you learn, work, and lead? We invite students, staff, and faculty from across the University of Michigan to explore contemporary Native presence, tribal sovereignty, and the importance of respectful relationships on campus, in professional settings, and with tribal nations.

Through cultural grounding, interactive learning, and a panel conversation with Native alumni and professionals, attendees will examine assumptions and reflect on identity, representation, mentorship, and relationship building. Together, we’ll consider what we should know and how we can act to be better classmates, colleagues, and future professionals. 

Registration required.

Nibi Anishinaabe Ikwewag Inaakonigewin | Water as a Sacred Spirit and the Role of Indigenous Women in Water Governance

November 4, 2026  |  3:30-5:00 pm
Dana Natural Resources Building
This event is hosted by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, the Global Center for Transboundary Waters, the Tishman Center for Social Justice and the Environment

For generations, Anishinaabe Ikwewag (women) have carried a special responsibility to nibi (water), the giver of life and a connection among people, community, and the natural world. Join Indigenous women from across the Great Lakes to explore the sacred relationship, the legacy of Nokomis Josephine Mandamin-ba and the water walkers, and the future of women-led water protection and stewardship.

Kelly Church Keynote Address

November 10, 2026  |  6:00-8:00 pm
Helmut Stern Auditorium, UMMA
Sponsored by Trotter/MESA

More details to come!

An Evening with Anton Treuer: Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask

November 13, 2026  |  6:00-8:00 pm
Michigan Union, Pendleton room
Sponsored by the Native American Student Association and Trotter/MESA

Join acclaimed Ojibwe author and professor Anton Treuer for an enlightening and candid conversation that breaks down barriers and answers the questions many have about Native Americans—but might be hesitant to ask. 

Dr. Treuer tackles a wide range of topics, from cultural traditions and identity to contemporary issues and misconceptions. Curious about why non-Native people wearing Indian costumes sparks controversy? Wondering about the origins of fry bread tacos, or what it’s like for Natives who don’t fit stereotypes? Dr. Treuer addresses these questions and many more, providing thoughtful, honest, and sometimes surprising insights.

1817 Project: Land, Culture, Memory, and Repair Teach-In

November 17, 2026  |  5:00-6:30 pm
Angell Hall, Auditorium D
Sponsored by the Inclusive History Project

Join the Inclusive History Project’s 1817 Project: Land, Culture, Memory, and Repair for a teach-in exploring the Indigenous histories that have shaped the University of Michigan.

Learn about Anishinaabeg history and culture, the 1817 Treaty of Fort Meigs and its role in U-M’s early development, and how Native student activism has shaped the treaty’s memory on campus. The teach-in will also explore what these histories mean today and highlight the 1817 Project’s ongoing work.

Registration is encouraged. 

Gaa-bigooshkaaning Round Dance

December 5, 2026  |  5:00-11:00 pm
Michigan Union, Rogel Ballroom
Sponsored by the Inclusive History Project

More details to come!