Grand Rapids Commemorates Indigenous Educator with Mural

News Summary

A vibrant new mural in Grand Rapids honors Angeline Kelsey ‘Naw Kay o Say’ Yob, an Indigenous educator and community activist. Created by artist Alan Compo, the mural celebrates Yob’s legacy and commitment to uplifting Indigenous communities while illustrating significant cultural elements. This project is part of the Women’s Way Initiative, aimed at recognizing the contributions of local women leaders. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the unveiling of this mural marks a meaningful tribute to Yob’s impactful life and teachings.

Grand Rapids Commemorates Indigenous Educator with Stunning Mural

In the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, a vibrant new mural has been unveiled, celebrating the incredible legacy of Angeline Kelsey ‘Naw Kay o Say’ Yob, a descendant of chiefs and a dedicated community activist. This mural is more than just a splash of color; it’s a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable woman who devoted her life to educating and uplifting Indigenous communities.

A Tribute to an Inspirational Figure

Angeline Yob, who was born in 1924 and passed away in 2002, has a legacy that resonates deeply within the Grand Rapids community. She was the great-great granddaughter of Chief Maish Ke Aw She, a key signatory of the Treaty of 1855. Throughout her life, Yob faced immense challenges, including forced relocation to a Native American boarding school when she was just five years old. However, she never lost touch with her heritage, retaining her native language and later guiding others to reconnect with their cultural roots.

The Heart of the Mural

The eye-catching mural, officially titled “Angeline Kelsey ‘Naw Kay o Say’ Yob Way,” can be found in an alley nestled between the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum and The Apartment Lounge. Created by talented artist Alan Compo, the mural is a testament to Yob’s dedication to teaching local Native Americans to embrace their heritage fully. The mural not only showcases a portrait of Yob within a medicine wheel, symbolizing ongoing lessons, but it also incorporates a heartwarming depiction of children dancing and a turtle representing the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians—all elements that reflect Yob’s cultural influence.

Historical Significance

What makes this mural even more special is its location. The streets where it stands were originally Indigenous footpaths leading to Ada, bridging the past and present in a profound and meaningful way. The vibrant colors and energetic designs invite passersby to stop and appreciate the history and importance of Yob’s contributions to the education of Indigenous students. For over three decades, she utilized storytelling as a powerful teaching tool, helping Indigenous students connect with their traditions and fostering a sense of pride in their identity.

A Collaborative Effort

The creation of this mural is part of a larger initiative known as the Women’s Way Initiative, launched in 2020 to honor local women leaders from minority backgrounds. This initiative, a collaboration between the city of Grand Rapids and various organizations such as the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., aims to shine a spotlight on the achievements of women who may have been overlooked in the past. As Kimberly Van Driel, director of public space management, noted, there has been a noticeable lack of public spaces named after women in Grand Rapids, making this mural a significant step in the right direction.

Unveiling Delayed but Worth the Wait

Although the mural’s ribbon-cutting was initially set for earlier, delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the event until 2021, making the eventual unveiling all the more exciting for the community. Artist Compo poured his heart and soul into the mural, spending approximately three weeks bringing this beautiful piece to life. Each brushstroke tells a story and serves as a reminder of Yob’s positive impact on countless lives.

A Lasting Legacy

As community members gather to admire this stunning tribute, the mural serves as a reminder of the profound influence one person can have. Angeline Kelsey ‘Naw Kay o Say’ Yob’s legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to embrace their heritage and carry forward the teachings of their ancestors. So, next time you’re in Grand Rapids, take a stroll to that special alley and soak in the rich history and vibrant spirit captured in this remarkable mural. It’s a celebration of one woman’s life and the lasting impact she made on her community—a beautiful tapestry woven into the fabric of Grand Rapids.

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Additional Resources

• MLive: Local Indigenous Educator’s Legacy Lives On Through Grand Rapids Street Art
• Wikipedia: Indigenous Peoples of the Americas
• Scripps News: After Decades of Abuse, Native Americans Struggle to Trust Government
• Google Search: Indigenous Education
• MLive: Grand Rapids and Muskegon News
• Google Scholar: Indigenous Cultural Heritage
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Angeline Kelsey