#Powwow Kicks Off Reopening of “ #Anishinaabek: The People of This Place” Exhibit at #GRPM
by Levi Rickert October 11, 2026
#GrandRapidsMI — The #GrandRapidsPublicMuseum was buzzing with energy Saturday evening as hundreds of Michigan tribal citizens and allies gathered for a powwow celebrating the reopening of Anishinaabek: The People of This Place, a completely renovated exhibit. The powwow kicked off the exhibit’s highly anticipated reopening, filling all three floors of the museum with celebration and community.
"The new exhibit replaces the previous one that opened more than 30 years ago.
" 'This may be the most significant thing the museum has ever done,' Dale Robertson, president and CEO of the Grand Rapids Public Museum, told Native News Online during the powwow. 'I have been told that some of the technology we used in the exhibit is the only place in the world where it is being used.'
" 'Anishinaabek: The People of This Place ‘continues that spirit and dedication of the original exhibit with updated technology and enhanced storytelling,' the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s #Anishinaabe Curator Katrina Furman (Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians) said. 'Once again the Grand Rapids Public Museum collaborated with the Anishinnaabek community to create a space that is welcoming, engaging, and honest.'
"Shannon Martin ( #GunLakeTribe ) served as the powwow emcee. Her father, George Martin ( Lac Courte Oreilles Band of #LakeSuperior #Chippewa Indians), served as head veteran. Mike Medawis ( #Potawatomi / #Ottawa ) served as the powwow arena director.
"The Anishinaabek: The People of This Place is located on the third floor of the Grand Rapids Public Museum."
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