10/06/2026
Aanii boozhoo relatives! Only three weekends left until the 2026 Bay Mills Pow Wow kicks off on June 26th at 7PM!
The Bay Mills Pow Wow Committee is so excited to share our t-shirt design this year with everyone, which was designed by Bay Mills tribal citizen Caitlin Wanic of Grandmother Moon Designs.
This year, because it is the 35th anniversary of the Bay Mills "Honoring Our Veterans" Pow Wow, we wanted to honor all Ogichidaag across Turtle Island in our design. Rooted at the heart of the design is the Thunderbird, which embodies the ultimate power, protection, and sovereignty of the Anishinaabe. It represents a fierce, enduring might that watches over those who fight for their communities.
According to our teachings, the Thunderbird is the ultimate guardian. It moves between the physical and spirit worlds. Its wings create the thunder that clears the air and its eyes flash the lightning that sees the truth. By placing this symbol on our shirts, we acknowledge that our warriors carry that same thunderous spirit, a mighty force that defends our land, our water, and our way of life.
Interwoven with the Thunderbird are red poppies and eagle feathers. The red poppies remind us of the blood shed for our freedom and the quiet sacrifice of our Ogichidaag. Just as the poppy returns to the earth, our veterans remain rooted in our communities and their stories bloom every time we choose to remember. The eagle feather embraces all, connecting it together, carrying our prayers, good thoughts, and gratitude to the spirit world and beyond for all those who have stood to defend us.
We look forward to seeing everyone at the Pow Wow. T-shirts and Hoodies will be on sale up front at the Bay Mills Pow Wow Committee tent, and we have some surprise items this year we look forward to sharing with everyone. Let's get ready to swing and sway, the Bay Mills way! We hope to see you soon!