I took this picture on a walk through Detroit. Throughout the summer I have enjoyed the murals and other urban art throughout the city.
Aanii Bakinaagejig pane [Ah-knee Buck-ih-nah-gay-jik Pah-nay]
Aanii Bemnaagejig Pane [Ah-knee Bem-nah-gay-jik Pah-nay]
Aanii Michigan [Ah-Knee Michigan]
Aapchigwa Niishiiwag Nigaanzijig [Ahp-jih-gwah Knee-shee-wock Nih-gahn-zih-jik]
These are the words of Hail to the Victors in Anishinaabemowin, the language used by most Michigan tribes. This past week, as I listened to a staff member sing these words, I reflected on my unique experience this summer and all that I have learned and experienced. I think back my first day, getting my first desk, and my first impressions of American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS). I remember feeling intimidated by my project, struggling to learn the names of the staff (there are quite a few), and my excitement for the summer. It is hard to believe I have only been here ten weeks. And, as I listened to Hail to the Victors, I know that my connection to AIHFS will continue past these ten weeks as I transition back to school. Not only have I gained many skills, I have an increased awareness of public health issues, am more educated on native identities, and have new professional connections.
In my first blog this summer, I wrote, “Interacting with staff and clients, I hope to learn the values and culture of the southeastern Michigan’s native population. I’m excited to attend the organization’s functions and meetings, observing their mission in action.” When I wrote this, I did not know that I would be able to accompany AIHFS to the Michigan Indian Family Olympics, sit in on operations policy meetings, conduct a focus group with the community advisory council, attend a meeting of all Detroit FQHC’s, sit in on an Enroll America meeting, take part in planning a collaborative needs assessment with North American Indian Associaiton and Michigan State University, and hear someone’s life story in a talking circle. This summer has exceeded my expectations. I know that AIHFS has benefited me in a myriad of ways. It is a great feeling to be able to leave the organization with something they can use, returning the favor as best I can.
Outside of AIHFS, I have been able to explore the city. Long walks, concerts, movies in New Center Park, eating at local restaurants, and shopping at the Eastern Market are just a few of the great experiences I have had in Detroit. Being able to observe the city’s character and meet its people, I have gained a respect for Detroit and a passion for the city and its people. I hope to have more experiences in Detroit in the future.
This past week, I had the privilege of calling the individuals that won gift cards for completing the community survey from my project. It was heartwarming to be able to tell them they had won. In my first blog, I decided not to write a letter because I thought it was ‘cheesy’. I’ll make up for that now. I felt that I have won this summer from the raffle of experiences. This experience, overall, has been incredibly rewarding and will continue to shape me as I go into the future.
The graffiti that sticks out and inspires us so much is one of the things i will miss the most as well!! Im so glad that your placement became something your were passionate about, we talked quite a bit about our placements together.