Walking in the Footsteps of our Ancestors (Ahadada Wathigre Hįnéwi Ke) is a joint project of the Center for Great Plains Studies and the Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Oklahoma that aims to promote healing and reconciliation in southeast Nebraska by reconnecting the Otoe-Missouria to their homelands and educating non-Native people about the history and ongoing presence of the Tribe and other Indigenous peoples in our region. Learn what each team is working on below.
Changing the Narrative
We are dedicated to honoring and re-Indigenizing southeast Nebraska’s commemorative landscape by uncovering and amplifying the stories, histories, and cultural significance of the Otoe-Missouria people and other Indigenous communities. Through rigorous research, thoughtful surveys, and active engagement with both local residents and tribal citizens, we aim to examine existing narratives, raise awareness, and deepen appreciation for Indigenous heritage, ensuring that these stories are celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
Creating Land-Based Commemorations
Our mission is to reconnect the Otoe-Missouria people with their ancestral homelands in southeast Nebraska through the creation of land-based commemorations that honor Indigenous history, cultural reverence for the land, and promote understanding and healing among all people. Working closely with community and conservation partners, we are identifying and designing meaningful commemorative spaces. These spaces will foster learning opportunities for non-Native communities, emphasizing Indigenous stewardship and deep connection to the land.
- This group is working with UNL Architecture students on planning land-based commemorations.
Visualizing Reconciliation
This initiative celebrates and amplifies Indigenous culture in the region by honoring the resilience and creativity of Indigenous people through contemporary art. By showcasing the voices of Otoe-Missouria artists and makers, it explores themes of reconnection to the land and cultural continuity. Curated in collaboration with Otoe-Missouria leadership, the exhibition will debut at the Great Plains Art Museum before traveling to other communities, including Red Rock, Oklahoma, fostering dialogue and enriching appreciation for Indigenous heritage.
Building Relationships
We seek to cultivate enduring relationships between the Otoe-Missouria people and the current stewards of southeast Nebraska, creating shared spaces for learning and respect through culturally enriching events. Through annual Otoe-Missouria Day celebrations, collaborative youth gatherings, and continued community engagement, we honor Indigenous heritage and nurture friendship, understanding, and mutual appreciation. These efforts lay the groundwork for lasting connections, supporting the continued vitality of Otoe-Missouria traditions and legacy in their ancestral homeland for generations to come.
Sharing the Story
Our mission is to document and share the journey of this project, highlighting the voices, stories, and cultural significance of the people involved. By utilizing a wide array of media—including film, podcasts, social media, newsletters, and public events—we aim to keep both the team and the public engaged and informed. Through accessible storytelling, we aspire to build a broad audience that can appreciate the impact of this project on the Otoe-Missouria community and beyond.
- Follow the story on Facebook, Instagram, or X.
- Dive deeper into the project in our podcast, Talking in the Footsteps of our Ancestors with host Johnnie Jae.
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