An Anishinaabek (American Indian) ceremony will be held this Fri., Oct. 24, at noon at Traverse City's Clinch Park to recognize Native Americans. New pavement markings will be unveiled along the recently constructed historic sidewalk that starts near the Grandview Parkway tunnel.

"This is a modest recognition and it carries a lot of weight," says Traverse City Commissioner Gary Howe. "As a community, we need to honor our complete history with a mindful awareness of Anishinaabek contributions and presence."

Following completion of the Clinch Park renovation last year, concerned Anishinaabek citizens approached city officials about the absence of recognition for the American Indian history at the park. The area was once used by the Odawa and Ojibwe (Ottawa and Chippewa) people in the 1700s. The historic sidewalk's markings, however, began with 1852.

Last week pavement markings were installed in recognition of the Anishinaabek's early settlement. Friday's ceremony will consist of a blessing, drum honor song and words from a local Odawa historian.