Heart of the Earth’s work is to return Anishinaabe culture and language to the daily experience of American Indians in the region. Restoration of culture is an ongoing challenge that can’t be accomplished through episodic projects. To deeply engage the Anishinaabe community and invite others in, continuing organizing work is needed. From early organizing work by Clyde Bellecourt in basements and churches in 1968, cultural celebrations and language are being restored but the effort is far from finished. HOTE particularly focuses on the needs of children and youth. When children learn culture and language, these are lessons for life. Repetition and reinforcement are the methods that work to make this happen. HOTE’s cultural work includes pow wows, learning to make traditional sugar; canoe races; the sun dance; ceremonies; and elder/youth gatherings. This is a full schedule of year round activities that require extensive planning and interaction among youth, elders, and many members and groups in the Indian community.
Review from Guidestar