Chloe M.

My Ojibwe Heritage

Chloe M.
Strait Regional Centre for Education Heritage Fair
Port Hawkesbury, NS

My project is about my Ojibwe culture. I presented important parts of Ojibwe life including the clan system, traditional foods, regalia, pow wows, hide preparation, drumming, and cultural teachings that have been passed down from my ancestors. Key people in my project include my family members, especially my mother and father, who shared knowledge and cultural teachings with me. I also included my own experiences attending pow wows, dancing in regalia, preparing moosehide, and sharing Indigenous culture with students throughout Nova Scotia. My final response to my inquiry question is being able to keep my culture and heritage alive by sharing passed down knowledge on to the next generation. 

What sources and evidence did you consult for your project? What different perspectives did they provide on your topic?

For my project I use several sources, including my personal experiences, local photographs, family knowledge, ceremonial items, and online research. Online research gives me a second-hand perspective on my culture whereas my own experiences, mother, father, and ancestors give me firsthand knowledge.

What is the historical significance of your topic?

The historical significance of my topic is the opportunity to honour my parents, grandparents, and ancestors by sharing my Ojibwe heritage. Some short-term impacts of my topic include the ability to share and teach my knowledge, traditions, and spirituality with my peers. The long-term impacts include preserving the language, culture, and spirituality for future generations.  

Why did you choose this topic? 

I chose this topic because it is something that is important to me and I have experienced personally throughout my life. It was an easy topic to talk about because Ojibwe culture and traditions are an important part of who I am. I also want to make my grandfather proud because he had a huge impact on my knowledge and I know he would have loved it for me to share it with others.