The Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids supports efforts to reaffirm federal recognition of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians.
“Supporting the Grand River Bands reflects our Congregation’s sense of shared responsibility to promote the common good and uphold the dignity of Indigenous communities. We are called to accompany this Tribe as they seek recognition of their history and right to fully participate in the life of the communities where they live,” said Sister Kathi Sleziak, OP, Counselor, Dominican Sisters~ Grand Rapids.
The federal government’s failure to recognize the Grand River Bands has too often rendered the Tribe invisible in public life despite its enduring history and identity. Federal recognition is more than a legal designation. It would also strengthen the Tribe’s ability to care for their people through access to critical resources (housing, health, education, elder services), protect its culture and treaty rights, and expand opportunities for its future.
As Dominican Sisters, our faith and Catholic Social Teaching call us to uphold the dignity of every person, to stand with communities that have been marginalized, and to ensure that every community is seen, heard, and treated with dignity.
“We hope that reaffirming federal recognition will be a meaningful step toward healing and reconciliation,” affirmed Sister Kathi.
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About the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians
“The Grand River Bands originally included 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and other waterways in southwest Michigan. Most of the Grand River Bands’ current membership resides in Kent, Muskegon and Oceana counties.
“The Grand River Bands have been working to gain federal recognition for nearly 30 years, and the lack of recognition has hindered the tribes’ ability to access resources…. including social services, education, housing, elder care and the ability to exercise our treaty rights.” ~ Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians
“The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians is a native sovereign nation with agreements with the federal government dating back to 1795. https://www.grandriverbands.com/
Take Action
Contact your members of Congress and tell them why federal recognition is important for the Grand River Bands and Michigan. https://www.grandriverbands.com/take-action/
Follow the progress of U.S. Senate Bill S. 2160 and House of Representatives H.R. 3255.
