The UNITY Earth Ambassadors (Midwest) Gathering, held August 21–24, at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, brought Native youth together for an immersive training rooted in the stewardship of the four elements—Fire, Earth, Wind, and Water. Hosted by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the event combined cultural traditions, environmental science, and peer-to-peer leadership. By the end, participants left with action plans to guide environmental projects in their home communities.
The gathering began with songs by the Dusty Bear Drum Group, followed by a pipe ceremony led by Elders Tom Peters and Arlene Kashata of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Their prayers set the tone for a weekend of cultural grounding and responsibility. One youth reflected, “The elder storytelling and prayer really helped me feel grounded in my identity.” Many youths expressed that they felt this connection with traditional elder teachers was something they were missing before.
Earth Ambassadors McKaylin Peters (Menominee Tribe), Néepa Hyde (Shinnecock Nation), and Marla Mesarina (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate) introduced the training with icebreakers that built connections among peers. “The icebreakers were my favorite part because we got to hang out and connect with others while learning, which made it so fun,” shared Payton Benak (Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians). The youth shared how the Earth Ambassadors made them feel welcome, and their inspiring platforms showed the youth how “people my age are actively making a difference.“
A highlight of the gathering came from Ecologist Brett Fessell of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, who shared The Ottaway: A River Reborn. After watching the documentary, the youth kayaked down the Boardman-Ottawa River, where dams had been removed and restoration was underway. “Kayaking made me feel connected — it was powerful to see the land healing,” said Néepa Hyde. This hands-on activity reminded participants that restoration is both real and achievable.
Saturday’s teachings focused on the four elements. Earth activities were facilitated by LorenAshley Buford, Fire teachings by Marla Mesarina, Water by Néepa Hyde, and Wind by McKaylin Peters. “I liked the project where we find a solution for our rez and create something together,” shared Azhiyen Wemigwans (Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe). These sessions helped youth translate cultural values into environmental solutions.
The evening panel featured Elders Arlene Kashata, Tom Peters, JoAnne Cook, and Eva Petoskey of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, along with guest speaker John M. Petoskey, Senior Associate Attorney with Earth Justice. Their messages inspired youth to view environmental advocacy through both cultural and civic lenses. One youth evaluation noted, “Meeting leaders, advocates, and professionals inspired me to get involved.”
Sunday closed with a Water Ceremony led by Elders Eva Petoskey, JoAnne Cook, and Arlene Kashata. Youth presented their projects with confidence—initiatives ranging from recycling programs to cultural education. “My first step is meeting with elders and asking them about plants,” said Marla Mesarina. These commitments showed how youth are prepared to bridge knowledge with action.
UNITY extends gratitude to all who contributed: Dusty Bear Drum Group, Elders Tom Peters, Arlene Kashata, Eva Petoskey, JoAnne Cook, Hank Bailey, Earth Ambassador alumnus Hunter Genia, Leilani Defoe, Ecologist Brett Fessell, and Attorney John M. Petoskey. As UNITY shared in its thank-you message, “What we witnessed was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of resilience, stewardship, and cultural connection.”
