Indigenous Voices

“I am descended from people who embraced the breath of life.”

People assume just because I live here on the reservation that I’ve been here all my life. But I have to tell them no, I was born in Chicago, and I’m a product of the Indian Relocation Act. Photos by Megan Monday “The Indian Relocation Act was an initiative that displaced Native Americans from the …

“I am descended from people who embraced the breath of life.” Read More »

Edith Leoso | Odanah, WI

“It’s a place where we can go and find peace and healing.”

I started singing on the drum when I returned from Vietnam.  One of my most memorable times singing was at the dedication of The Highground in 1988. The Highground is a memorial park that pays tribute to veterans. Photo courtesy Gary Kmiecik They were going to dedicate the “Fragments” statue—a Vietnam veterans’ tribute—and they asked …

“It’s a place where we can go and find peace and healing.” Read More »

Gary Kmiecik | Lac du Flambeau, WI