I hope that you as whoever watches this, understands that our prophecies and our teachings were not meant to scare us, but to help us prepare, start stalking up on these, start learning about how to live in balance with nature. And we'll be okay. We'll make it through. Aho miigwech.

Michael Smith Jr. was born and raised on the Leech Lake Reservation in north central Minnesota, where his deep connection to Ojibwe traditions continues to shape his life and work. As a Community Cultural Advocate with the Leech Lake Family Spirit program, he is dedicated to helping families reclaim and pass on cultural practices that strengthen identity and community well-being.

Through his role, Smith Jr. supports families in hosting naming ceremonies, a vital rite of passage in Ojibwe culture. He guides community members in understanding traditional medicine, harvesting practices, and other ceremonies that connect individuals to the land and to one another. His work includes everything from house visits delivering essential resources to teaching families about berry picking, maple syrup tapping, and preparing sacred medicines such as sage, sweetgrass, cedar, and tobacco.

Rooted in his community and committed to cultural recovery, Smith Jr. sees his efforts as both preserving and renewing Ojibwe ways for future generations. “We’re shaping our identity for the future, while holding on to the beauty of the past,” he says. For him, the work is not only about providing resources but also about ensuring that every family can experience the joy, connection, and pride that come with carrying forward their traditions.

Michael Smith graciously shared a traditional teaching about the origins and purpose of copper with the Nigaane Bizindamoo-Makak production team. his video is shared below.