Mentor: Sarah Dumyahn, Ph.D.

Through the initiatives of the Myaamia Center, including cultural revitalization efforts, there are increasing opportunities to deepen the understanding of the significance of the relationship between Miami University and the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma. This project explores kitahkinaani, or ‘Our Garden’ at Miami University, and its connection to the Myaamia cultural revitalization efforts. Kitahkinaani serves as both an educational and cultural space that highlights the significance of Indigenous plants and their roles in local ecology, while also acting as a point of connection between the Myaamia Center, Myaamia Heritage students, and the broader Miami University community.

Kitahkinaani offers an opportunity for leadership from students in the Sustainability in Practice (IES 474) course, as well as volunteer opportunities for students in Italian Food Cultures in Context (ITL/IES 231), an experiential learning course. All students involved gain an understanding of Myaamia ethnobotany, Myaamia language revitalization efforts, an introduction to the Miami Tribe and Miami University relationship, as well as sustainable gardening practices. In addition to this, current students who have tended kitahkinaani, will have the opportunity to voluntarily participate in a survey about their experience. The objectives of the case study and survey research are to explore the value of kitahkinaani in experiential learning, to increase knowledge about Myaamia ethnobotany, and to tend a sustainable campus garden. Through this project, we plan to support the continued care and expansion of kitahkinaani and further improve its role with experiential learning and Myaamia cultural revitalization efforts.

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