EVERY STEP:
A HEALING CIRCLE
Every Step: A Healing Circle centers on the Healing Circle Run. In 1989, the Anishinaabe Solidarity Relay began as a response to the resounding racism and hatred directed towards Ojibwe people throughout the region at boat landings and other communal spaces. The animosity that spilled into communities, schools, and even churches created great hardship for Ojibwe communities and their harvesters. Today, the Healing Circle Run continues to connect Ojibwe communities across Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Through collective running, walking, and prayer, it provides healing and relief. The annual event also serves as a reminder to both participants and observers of the commitment, efforts, and resiliency of the tribal nations that have survived decades of trauma, violence, and abuse.
LEARNING QUESTIONS
• Why is leadership important to both individuals and communities?
• Why was it important to reflect positivity during those was first runs and how did it impact both the runners and the communities they visited?
• What is historic trauma and how is it addressed in this video?
• Explain the ties between the mundane (running) and the spiritual (healing) as evidenced in this video.
CREDITS
Director / Producer
Finn Ryan
Producer
Dylan Jennings
Cinematographer
Mike Palzkill
Sound Recordist / Mix
Craig Eley
Editor
Travis Whitty
Score
Sean Carey
Narrators
Agnes “Punkin” Fleming
Mic Isham
Gary “Kemo” Kmiecik
Giiwegiizhigookway Martin
Jason Schlender
Special Thanks
Neil Kmiecik
Ernie St. Germaine
Jenny Krueger-Bear
Paula Maday