As a Potawatomi language apprentice, I work full-time for the Tribe to thoroughly learn Neshnabémowen, the language of our original people. My mother is Madolene Big Bear, a tribal citizen. When I was young, she would drive us to pow wows across the country to expose me to Native traditions and culture. Of everything we saw, it was the language I felt the most connected to. I feel it’s important for us to learn the language, and to pass it down to our children. If we don’t, we’ll lose a deep connection to our Elders and ancestors. My dream would be to have the native language spoken in every department of our Tribal government. For now, I will do what I can to teach and share my knowledge. It is my honor.

 

I am Kendall and I am Potawatomi.