Ikidowin Peer Education Program and Youth Theater Acting Ensemble

Our Programming

The ensemble meets year-round developing plays that address social issues important to the community. At after-school meetings they practice Native culture with tobacco ceremonies, learn about, and use traditional medicines. Ikidowin actors often begin in 6th grade and develop throughout Middle and High School. Theater is a great model for increasing leadership and continual skill development. Ikidowin actors show commitment to the program, reliably attending rehearsal, engaging with the community, being part of advocacy and policy change for Native American rights and health and safety in the community.

Theater is an important tool for education to stop discrimination and stigma, because it emphasizes what people feel, not just what people know. Change happens when people feel motivated to change themselves. This production can change the stigma around opioids. Ikidowin is Ojibwe “to speak” and this production will speak about the problem of opioids. It will show where we can each be accountable and supportive preventing opioids in the community. An important line in the play is “I’m a drinker, but that is not all that I am”. We want every audience member to change the way they see people with opioid or substance addiction.

Ikidowin productions are held at tribal schools, schools in the twin cities, at public health conferences, foundation convenings, at community events, at small theaters in the twin cities, and as part of festivals. Ikidowin actors help to educate other Native youth and community members through performances and classroom workshops led by the Ikidowin actors.