Odawa Institute Dewegan (Drum Project)

Project leader: Baapi Mong Kwe, Vicki Lynn

The goal of the Dewegan Project is to provide deweganan (drums) to all those who want to continue the tradition of drumming and singing in the Anishinaabemowin.

Methods of achieving our goal:

1) Language modules in four levels.

a) Nouns

b) Verbs

c) Questions and answers

d) Songs

2) Free participation in drum making classes

a) Classes will include everthing from fur to making the stick. Particpants will remove fur, bend cedar ring, stretch hide, and make stick.

b) Tradition of giving away the first drum made by each participant will be stressed.

c) Ceremony and feast to follow.

3) Traditional method of song introductions and story will be stressed.

a) We will help everyone leave with a song.