Belinda Bardwell will discuss her documentary, “Ngiiwe - Shaping Narratives” on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. through a virtual presentation hosted by Hope College.
Bardwell, who is from Grand Rapids, produced the documentary for WGVU. In it, she is reclaiming her Native traditions by interviewing and connecting with her community. As she discovers her way to be a 21st century Native American, she explains the process. A discussion will follow the short episode.
The public is invited to view this virtual discussion and can register in advance to be a part of the livestreamed discussion by visiting the event’s listing at calendar.hope.edu. Advanced registration is required. Admission is free.
Belinda Bardwell holds a Master of Public Administration degree in public management (Grand Valley State University, ’17) and a Bachelor of Science degree in liberal studies (GVSU, ’14), and is an accomplished community leader. She served as a commissioner for the Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission (five years), currently serves as president for the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (three years) and serves on the Native American Advisory Council for GVSU.
She is the Native American program coordinator, and has served as project coordinator and as spokesperson for the "Gi-gikinomaage-min (We are all teachers): Defend Our History, Unlock Your Spirit oral history project. She began her work in the community as parent/student coordinator for the Native American Education Program for the Grand Rapids Public Schools. She is also a proud citizen of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians located in Harbor Springs and has served her tribe as an elected official.
The presentation and discussion are sponsored by the college’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion.