The Seventh Fire was developed by the Beaumier Upper Peninsula Heritage Center at Northern Michigan University and premiered in October 2021
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A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY, RESILIENCE, AND REBIRTH
The Seventh Fire: A Decolonizing Experience is a powerful exhibit that explores the ongoing process of decolonization through the lens of Anishinaabe history, culture, and identity. Set among the winding trails of the Miners Memorial Heritage Park, on land that once housed iron mines and, before that, was home to the Ojibwe Anishinaabe people, The Seventh Fire is a powerful outdoor exhibit that explores the past, present, and future of Anishinaabe resilience.

Inspired by the Seven Fires Prophecies, which were given by Anishinaabe prophets over 1,500 years ago and foretold centuries of hardship, including the arrival of European settlers, forced migration, and the devastating impact of boarding schools. But the Seventh Fire offers hope: a prophecy that promises a rebirth of Anishinaabe traditions, spirituality, and sovereignty.

Through carefully curated historical narratives developed by a collaborative team of Indigenous leaders, scholars, and community members, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of decolonization and its role in shaping Indigenous communities today. Placed at the heart of Art in the Park, the exhibit offers a space for reflection, learning, and dialogue.

The Seventh Fire: A Decolonizing Experience is presented in partnership with the Beaumier Upper Peninsula Heritage Center, and is funded in part by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities