Happy November!
There are many events and holidays to discuss this month, and while we celebrate, please enjoy your Thanksgiving break and take some time to rest and care for yourself.
Native American Heritage Month
There are many great opportunities for community and gratitude this month, especially celebrating Native American Heritage Month. We recognize the historic displacement of Indigenous people, and this month is a great time to look into Native American history. Written into law in 1990, this month celebrates the culture, traditions, and sacrifices of the Native American community.
We must recognize that much of the land we use today is only because of the displacement of Native American families and tribes. Many land acknowledgments have been critiqued as performative, therefore, it is important to put words into action. Below is the land acknowledgement used by the School of Social Work. Many colleges and departments at the university have varied statements with the same core message:
The University of Michigan's School of Social Work is located in the Huron River watershed, on land stewarded by Niswi Ishkodewan Anishinaabeg (The Three Fires People); who are the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Bodewadmi. As we work, live and learn on these territories we must keep in mind the ongoing effects of colonization, the communities' struggle for self-determination, colonial state violence, and the recognition of Indigenous sovereignty. Through scholarship and pedagogy, we work to create a future in which the past is thoroughly understood and the present aims to enhance social justice while enacting an ethic of care and compassion.
Seasonal Well-being
As the days get shorter, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects many studentsWe encourage self-care and utilizing other wellness tools during this season. Small things such as going for a walk during the daylight hours, journaling about what you’re grateful for or other positive experiences, and reaching out to friends and family for support can help on a day-to-day basis. There is also wellness coaching available through Wolverine Wellness and counseling through CAPS or Uwill. To those celebrating Thanksgiving, whether with friends or family, take the time to connect and acknowledge what you are most thankful for.
Check out some of the many events happening this month and make time to do some self-care during the Thanksgiving break, including checking in with yourself and those who mean the most to you.