These baskets have always had important roles to play in their communities. Historically they were used for storage, to contain food, fibers and collect berries. But it also contains a cautionary tale and a warning of environmental catastrophe.įor centuries, baskets have been an important part of Pokagon life.
This exhibit tells a story of survival and resilience of the Pokagon Potawatomi. However, over the past century, the practice of basket weaving has been threatened first by the enforcement of oppressive government regulations and now by the ecological threat presented by the Emerald Ash Borer beetle. For the Pokagon Potawatomi, these baskets are regarded with the utmost honor, treated as living members of the community. This April, a new exhibit will open at the Field Museum that explores the artistry, tradition and the importance of basketmaking among the Pokagon band of the Potawatomi people. New exhibit featuring Pokagon Potawatomi basket making to open at the Field Museum Link to Exhibit Page at the Field Museum: Pokagon Potawatomi Black Ash Baskets: Our Storytellers This strawberry basket by Jamie Chapman is covered in curled spikes called curlicues, which require time and masterful skill to weave. Strawberries and blueberries are sacred fruits to the Pokagon Potawatomi people. The full issue will be up on the CHM Issuu site (linked above) later this year
You can download and read the article (pdf) here. I hope you find it a thoughtful and thought provoking read. Lastly, I point out the importance that Land Acknowledgments be historically accurate, respect tribal sovereignty, and eschew the politics/agendas of individuals who make unsubstantiated claims of homeland/territory. in ways appropriate to the person or institution they are affiliated. The title is “Chicago is on the Lands of the Potawatomi: Why Land Acknowledgments for Chicago should acknowledge this historical fact” and it traces the history of land acknowledgments in the United States, the value of a land acknowledgement as a monument/memorial, but also the importance of including a “Call to Action” articulating the ways in which present occupants of Indigenous lands intend to recompense for our losses with support, collaboration, etc. I am excited to share that my newest article is being published in Chicago History Magazine.
This mural on Chicago’s Riverwalk, “Bodéwadmikik ethë yéyék/You are on Potawatomi Land” by Grand Portage Ojibwe artist Andrea Carlson, is a land acknowledgment created to honor Potawatomi people.
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