The Waterers

Serena Logan, a youth from Nett Lake Village, expresses her heartfelt wish to protect the bears and honor their place in Ojibwe culture. Her words reflect a deep sense of care and responsibility for the natural world and its sacred beings. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Téa Drift Rivera from Nett Lake Village shares a humorous yet heartfelt story about a bear that climbed into her car, teaching an unexpected lesson about responsibility and compassion. Through her young daughter’s innocent response, she reflects on the deep understanding that bears are relatives deserving of care, not fear. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Téa Drift Rivera from Nett Lake Village speaks about the sacred kinship between people and bears, emphasizing respect, protection, and reciprocity. She reflects on traditional teachings that honor the bear’s sacrifice and condemns wasteful harm against these spiritual relatives. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Deanna Drift of Nett Lake Village calls on community leaders to deepen their understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of bears within Bois Forte traditions. She reminds them that true leadership includes learning from both traditional and contemporary knowledge to better serve their people. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Mavis Drift, an elder from Nett Lake Village, shares teachings about the Bear Clan and its deep meaning in Ojibwe culture—symbolizing bravery, family, and spiritual protection. She reflects on the importance of naming ceremonies and the guidance they offer in understanding one’s connection to the spirit world. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Serena Logan, a youth from Nett Lake Village, reflects on her experiences growing up in connection with her community and the natural world that surrounds it. Her story highlights the importance of listening, learning, and carrying forward the teachings of her elders. This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Margaret Benner of Nett Lake Village reflects on the teachings passed down from her mother, aunties, and elders about honoring the bears through seasonal feasts and ceremony. She shares how these traditions and the guidance of spiritual advisors continue to shape her understanding of culture, dance, and lifelong learning.

Margaret Benner of Nett Lake Village reflects on the sacred relationship between her community and the bears that share their land. As a Bear Clan member, she speaks about standing up to protect them, honoring the deep spiritual connection that defines her identity and responsibility.  This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Téa Drift Rivera from Nett Lake Village reflects on growing up alongside the bears that roam her backyard, sharing a story of coexistence and trust. Her words reveal a deep respect for the animals and the balance between humans and nature in her community.  This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.

Deanna Drift of Nett Lake Village, Bois Forte Nation, shares her thoughts on the spiritual and  impact of bear hunts in her community.   This story was collected as part of the Waterers Oral Histories Program.