Michigan’s K-12 schools, colleges, universities and local units of government are now eligible for funding through the Native American Heritage Fund to defray the costs of projects that promote positive relationships and accurate information about the history and role of Michigan’s Indian tribes and Native Americans in the state.

Projects may include changing or revising curricula or improving program development, replacing or revising mascots or imagery that might be considered offensive to Native Americans, and replacing or revising government seals or images in public spaces. Nonprofit organizations that are undertaking a project on behalf of a K-12 school, college, university or local unit of government are also eligible to apply for NAHF funding.

“I am proud of the joint collaboration between the State of Michigan and the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi for the creation and development of the Native American Heritage Fund,” said Gov. Rick Snyder said. “The implementation of this fund will allow local schools and municipalities the opportunity to cultivate awareness and respect for the culture and history of Michigan’s native people.”

The fund, which was approved in 2016 as part of the Second Amendment to the Tribal-State Gaming Compact between NHBP and the State of Michigan, allocates a portion of NHBP’s state revenue sharing payments to the NAHF.

“This initiative provides an opportunity to spread understanding about the native culture and history of Michigan’s 12 federally recognized tribes,” said NHBP Tribal Council Chairperson Jamie Stuck, who also serves as the Chair of the NAHF Board. “The distributions from this fund will promote mutual cooperation and respect between the tribes of Michigan and local communities.”

Application information is available online at calhouncountymi.gov/government/native_american_heritage_fund_board. Applications will be available beginning Friday, June 8. Applications are due at 5 p.m. Friday, July 6, to the NAHF Board. Applications can be sent via mail to Calhoun County Administrator/Controller Kelli Scott at 315 West Green St., Marshall, MI 49068 or via email to kdscott@calhouncountymi.gov.