JERRY OTOWADJIWAN
Jerry Otowadjiwan, 4th Degree Mide, Fish Clan, Wikwemikong Unceded First Nation
Jerry Otowadjiwan is a fourth degree Mide, Anishinaabe knowledge holder, teacher, storyteller, singer and Anishinaabemowin language specialist. Embracing a multi-generational, cultural revitalization focus, Jerry’s practice is rooted in his positioning as a Mishomis and chi Mishomis to 7 grandchildren. Jerry’s process also reflects a unique ability to ‘sing worlds into being’ through creatively engaging with protocol, practice and a song’s lineage to protect, support and assist those transitioning. Jerry’s involvement with community rooted organizations has enhanced and re-conceptualized ‘support services’ to include physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions. Laurentian University, University of Sudbury and the Wabnode Centre for Aboriginal Services are just a few of the spaces where Jerry has assisted in cultural revitalization and knowledge sharing. Jerry carries the collective knowledge and memory of place embedded in the singing traditions and protocols of Anishinaabe intelligence. His unique process evokes songs as vehicles to create frequencies of kinship and relationality. This urban methodology assists those who may have experiences dislocation to homeland. Jerry also embodies a strong capacity of translating complex thoughts disseminating from Anishinaabe principles and philosophies.
Jerry Otowadjiwan is a fourth degree Mide, Anishinaabe knowledge holder, teacher, storyteller, singer and Anishinaabemowin language specialist. Embracing a multi-generational, cultural revitalization focus, Jerry’s practice is rooted in his positioning as a Mishomis and chi Mishomis to 7 grandchildren. Jerry’s process also reflects a unique ability to ‘sing worlds into being’ through creatively engaging with protocol, practice and a song’s lineage to protect, support and assist those transitioning. Jerry’s involvement with community rooted organizations has enhanced and re-conceptualized ‘support services’ to include physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions. Laurentian University, University of Sudbury and the Wabnode Centre for Aboriginal Services are just a few of the spaces where Jerry has assisted in cultural revitalization and knowledge sharing. Jerry carries the collective knowledge and memory of place embedded in the singing traditions and protocols of Anishinaabe intelligence. His unique process evokes songs as vehicles to create frequencies of kinship and relationality. This urban methodology assists those who may have experiences dislocation to homeland. Jerry also embodies a strong capacity of translating complex thoughts disseminating from Anishinaabe principles and philosophies.