by Melissa Newland
The 48th annual KBIC Maawanj’iding brought the Ojibwa Campground in Baraga to life this past weekend with the steady heartbeat of the drum, the brilliant movement of dancers, and the warmth of families gathering in celebration of culture, tradition, and community. Thousands of people attended the event, filling the grounds with conversation, laughter, and reverence as the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community welcomed dancers, singers, vendors, visitors, and relatives from near and far. This year’s gathering took place Friday through Sunday, July 24-26, and featured 395 dancers, each bringing their own presence, style, and story into the circle. From the youngest participants stepping carefully beside family members to seasoned dancers moving with confidence and grace, the arena became a living expression of heritage carried forward across generations. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.