About This Resource
This awareness-level lesson introduces students to how Tribal Governance has evolved over time, and Tribal Nations maintain sovereign authority to define their own citizenship criteria, which may vary between nations. Anishinaabek hold citizenship in their Tribal Nation/First Nation, as well as citizenship in the U.S. and/or Canada.
Activity Setting
Classroom
Student Organization
Whole Class, Small Groups
Time Required
1 hour, 5 minutes – 1 hour, 15 minutes
Learners will…
- Be able to explain that Tribal Nations are sovereign, self-governing communities with their own leaders, responsibilities, and traditions, and reflect on how belonging to a Nation involves reciprocal care and responsibility.
- Be able to identify unique characteristics of Tribal Nations in Michigan (leaders, programs, cultural practices) and practice curiosity and appreciation for the diversity within Anishinaabe governance and community life.
- Be able to describe how many Anishinaabe people belong to both their Tribal Nation and the places they live today, and reflect on how being part of more than one community shapes identity, belonging, and responsibility.
Essential Questions
- What Tribal Nations share geography with Michigan?
- What does it mean to belong to a Nation, and how do Nations care for their people, culture, and land?
Lesson Plan Materials
- Tribal Nations Fact Sheet
- Printed or projected Seats of Sovereignty: The 12 Federally Recognized Tribes in Michigan Map
- Tribal Nations Passport