Waasa-Inaabidaa
We Look In All Directions

Series Summary

“Waasa Inaabidaa--We Look In All Directions” is the most comprehensive historical and dynamic contemporary portrayal of the Anishinaabe-Ojibwe (Chippewa) nation ever produced for television. The Ojibwe, the second-largest tribe in North America live in the upper Great Lakes region, are blessed with a rich culture and history. This beautiful documentary series showcases the vibrant Ojibwe culture in six hour-long episodes. Each episode spans nearly five hundred years of history, from pre-contact to contemporary times. The six programs focus on Ojibwe language, leadership, economic development, education, health, and the Ojibwe relationship to the environment.

This series features over one hundred interviews with tribal elders, historians, youth, and leaders from the 19 Ojibwe Bands in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Combined with three thousand archival photographs and on-camera testimonials by noted regional historians, this captivating series informs the public about contemporary Ojibwe culture and life. Original and historical artwork combined with dramatic portrayals poignantly illustrates the four seasons traditional life cycle of the Ojibwe, as well as the radical effects of the Fur Trade and European contact. Powerful contemporary and archival footage and still photographs bring to life intimate portraits of Ojibwe culture and history.

The Ojibwe people have a compelling story of adaptation and survival, desperation and ingenuity, bitter betrayals and stunning victories. Though uniquely rooted in the Great Lakes region, Ojibwe history shares many commonalities with other tribal nations throughout the United States and Canada. Many Ojibwe believe that the economic and political success of the 90's may be short-lived if the they do not diversify their economies, consolidate their power, prepare their children, and inform the general public of their unique sovereign status as Anishinaabe-Ojibwe.

Teacher’s guides for each episode will be easily accessible through our informative and educational web site: www.ojibwe.org. The series includes original performances by over a dozen Ojibwe singers, drummers, and musicians featured in an original soundtrack produced by composer Peter Buffet (Dances With Wolves, 500 Nations, etc.) which will be available on CD. A beautiful companion book, written by Ojibwe author Dr. Thomas Peacock and published by Afton Historical Society Press will be available as well.

“Waasa Inaabidaa ---We Look In All Directions” has been in production for two years and represents the input of over two hundred Ojibwe individuals and 19 Ojibwe Bands in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this powerful and riveting story of the Ojibwe people through five hundred years of change, adaptation, survival, and cultural renaissance.