Join us for a special Indigenous language screening of Star Wars in Grand Rapids!
Grand Rapids will host a special screening of ‘Star Wars: A New Hope’ dubbed in Ojibwe on May 4, 2025. This unique event aims to celebrate Indigenous languages and enhance community connections. The screening is free, but reservations are required. Join in for a cinematic experience that honors indigenous heritage and culture!
Mark your calendars, Star Wars fans! The vibrant city of Grand Rapids is gearing up for a unique event that promises to bring the magic of the galaxy far, far away a little closer to home. On May 4, 2025, the Grand Rapids Public Museum will host a special screening of the iconic film, Star Wars: A New Hope, but with an exciting twist: this version will be dubbed in the Ojibwe language. The screening is set for 2:30 p.m. and is free of charge, although attendees need to reserve their tickets online.
The Ojibwe adaptation, titled Anangong Miigaading, premiered in August 2024, marking a delightful 47 years since the original film hit theaters. Fans of the saga will be thrilled to learn that this adaptation is not just a simple translation but a passionate project that involved creating new words for various fictional elements—ever wondered how to say “lightsaber” in Ojibwe? This initiative showcases the ongoing effort to keep Indigenous languages alive and thriving while introducing them to new audiences through popular culture.
Last year, the Ojibwe version charmed audiences across select theaters in Canada and parts of North America, specifically in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. It made an impressive impact, especially considering that it’s now one of over 50 languages into which “Star Wars” has been translated. Interestingly, it is the second Indigenous language adaptation after the Navajo version, marking a significant milestone in diversifying how stories are told and experienced in cinema.
Community members share that this film screening is more than just a chance to enjoy a classic movie. It’s an opportunity to connect with indigenous heritage and honor indigenous languages like Ojibwe. A local attendee, who took her nieces to the screening, conveyed heartfelt sentiments on the importance of Indigenous languages in fostering a sense of pride and identity.
The Ojibwe people, recognized as one of the largest tribal populations in North America, have a rich history and vibrant culture across states like Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. They are known for being part of the Council of Three Fires alliance along with the Odawa and Potawatomi tribes, which highlights their collaborative spirit and cultural significance within the broader community.
This remarkable translation project was made possible through a wonderful collaboration between Lucasfilm, the University of Manitoba, and the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council. With skilled voice actors—many of whom have local ties and are actively involved in promoting the Ojibwe language—this adaptation is a celebration of community spirit, cultural pride, and artistic expression.
As the day of the screening approaches, excitement is building. The community is invited not only to enjoy a beloved cinematic classic but also to engage with their Indigenous identity. The project aims to inspire speakers of all ages and revitalizes interest in Indigenous languages, using the force of popular culture as a powerful tool for growth and awareness.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to see Star Wars in a brand new light, or if you’re looking for a fun weekend activity with family and friends, don’t miss this exclusive event! Reserve those free tickets via the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website, and get ready to experience Anangong Miigaading on the big screen. May the Fourth be with you, indeed!
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