Orange Shirt Day learning circles present opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and community members to learn about Indian Boarding School experiences and about healing and justice for survivors and families.
The Learning Circles will also help participants prepare for NMU's Orange Shirt Day commemoration event on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.
Learning Circles will be held from 6–8 p.m. on Sept. 9, 16, and 23 in the Whitman Hall Commons.
Join us on Friday, April 10, from 1–3 p.m. to learn about maple sap processing!
The event will take place at NMU’s Center for Native American Studies Fire Site, located in Whitman Woods (Parking Lot 18).
In addition to learning about maple sap processing, attendees can participate in a sticker and badge design jam, enjoy Indigenous storytelling, and connect with the community.
WAAWIYEYAA is coming to NMU's Forest Roberts Theatre on Wed. March 11 and offers a FREE performance from 7-9pm! The Anishinaabe rock-fusion band will share original music inspired by balance and harmony in creation and the name "Waawiyeyaa" which means "the circle" in Anishinaabemowin.
Attend for a chance to win door prizes!
Waawiyeyaa's members include current and former Center for Native American Studies faculty!
Local musician and CNAS Director Tyler Dettloff will perform an opening set 🎶
The NMU Center for Native American Studies (CNAS) invites you to N8V Dance Fitness with Michelle Reed (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe). These dance fitness workshops are open to all and welcome participants of all experience levels.
Dates: Select Wednesdays
February 4, 11, 18, and 25
March 18 and 25
April 1, 8, 15, and 22
Time: 1:00–1:50 p.m.
Location: PEIF Dance Studio
Participants should bring clean gym shoes, a water bottle, and a towel. Participants are eligible for prizes.
The NMU Center for Native American Studies (CNAS) invites you to the Fire Site Storytelling Series. This series features Anishinaabe winter storytelling, oral traditions, and community discussion, supported and facilitated by the CNAS director, faculty, and staff.
Dates:Select Thursdays
February 12, 19, and 26
March 12 and 19
April 2, 9, 16, and 23
Time: 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Location: Whitman Woods - Center for Native American Studies Fire Site Pavilion (located between Whitman Hall and The Science Building, along Norway Ave.)
If weather temperatures are too cold for safety, Whitman Commons will be used as the alternative indoor location.
Stay updated about guest storytellers and culture bearers by following the Center for Native American Studies on social media: @cnas_nmu
