These lands on which our building stands trespassed on the waters of Lake Michigan—a name derived from the Ojibwe word mishigamaa, meaning “large water.” For thousands of years, the waters of the Great Lakes were vital resources for fishing, agriculture, and transport, which Native American tribes have continually cared for and worked to protect.

 

Otherworld Theatre acknowledges that we are on the ancestral homelands of the Council of Three Fires - The Ojibwa, Ottawa, and Potawatomi tribes - and a place of trade with many other tribes, including the Ho-Chunk, Miami, Menominee, Sauk, and Meskwaki. We must also recognize, share, and celebrate the history of local Native Americans and their immemorial ties to this land.

 

It is within Otherworld Theatre's responsibility as an performing arts institution to perpetuate knowledge about Native peoples. Consistent with the theatre's commitment to diversity and inclusion, Otherworld commits to developing deeper partnerships that advocate for the progress, dignity, and humanity of the many diverse Native Americans who still live and practice their heritage and traditions on this land today.

 

If you have questions, comments, or would like to learn more about our upcoming projects involving Native American art, here is a list of local and national resources:

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