Michelle Goose

Michelle Goose (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe) is working to revitalize Ojibwe language and culture to build confidence and connection for new generations and break the cycle of intergenerational trauma. As an Ojibwe mother and educator, Michelle has seen how barriers to family language learning have reinforced intergenerational trauma for Ojibwe people and is eager to open doors for others in the Ojibwe community. She co-founded an adult Ojibwe immersion academy, developed an Ojibwe language certificate program and organized a bilingual playgroup to help learners of all ages enhance their language skills and connect to community. She will use her Bush Fellowship to take a sabbatical. She will use the time to immerse herself in Ojibwe language and culture and pursue trainings, workshops and courses to improve her knowledge around Indigenous language education. She will also travel to connect with and learn from other Indigenous communities.

What has informed your approach to leading change in your community?

My upbringing, and then my education later in life. Also, connecting with my language as an adult, inspired me to be a leader in my community.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation. Ojibwe communities are so spread out. I’m in Duluth and my family is two hours away, and going to visit them takes a lot of time and energy. There are also so many Ojibwe communities everywhere that are doing cool things. I would like to be able to teleport somewhere to join in on the fun.

What is your favorite quote or expression?

It’s an expression from one of my Ojibwe language teachers in college: “If you take care of the language, the language will take care of you.” I’ve always tried to let that guide my journey as a language learner and as an educator.