Workshop focuses on native ‘talking stick’ tradition

Jenn Rogers of Holland wove the blue bead through the leather and made sure the feather was tightly secured. Her project was complete.

“I’m just taking advantage of a chance to learn about my culture,” she said about the Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, workshop on the Native American tradition of “Talking Sticks” at the Carriage House at the Felt Estate, 6597 138^th Ave.

Rogers, of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, was one of a dozen participants in the event sponsored by the Laketown Township Parks and Recreation Commission. The Friends of the Felt Estate provided the venue at no charge.

The workshop was led by Saugatuck artist Jeanette Locher of Ojibwe descent who shared traditions and words of native culture.

The talking stick has traditionally been used in council circles. The stick would designate who had the right to speak — whoever holds the stick speaks and all others listen. The stick is then passed to the next person before their turn to speak.

The practice made sure everyone had a chance to speak and actively listen.

The November workshop begins the second season of winter parks events. Last year’s inaugural programs included a class on wild mushrooms, a talk on invasive species and a workshop on how to create a butterfly garden.

The parks commission will address the final list of 2025-2026 events at its Nov. 19 meeting.