Ojibwe Giizhiig Anung Masinaaigan and D(L)akota Makoċe Wiċaŋḣpi Wowapi: Revitalization of Native American Star Knowledge, A Community Effort
Abstract
The Native Skywatchers research and programming initiative focuses on the revitalization of native star knowledge of the Ojibwe and Dakota people. Activities include interviewing elders, culture and language teachers, and creating programming around traditional native star knowledge interlaced with Western science. Star maps, curriculum, hands-on workshops, planetarium shows, and artwork have been designed and delivered. Developed for native and non-native communities in light of the new Minnesota State Science Standards implemented in 2009, presented here are two native star maps that were created by the Native Skywatchers initiative: the Ojibwe Giizhig Anung Masinaaigan (or the Ojibwe Sky Star Map); and the D(L)akota Makoċe Wiċaŋḣpi Wowapi or (D(L)akota Star Map). This interdisciplinary project includes professional astronomers, professional artists, language and cultural experts, educators, community members and elders.