Teachings of the Medicine Wheel: with Elder Joseph Standing Bear

*We are located on the backside of Water Street Studios near Grainology. Drive past Kiss the Sky on 1st Street. You'll see a drive on your right. We're about halfway down the parking lot. Go up the outdoor staircase.

An Indigenous artisan vendor will also be present, with items available for holiday gifting. Purchases further support the Foundation and its work.

Join us for an evening of learning with Joseph Standing Bear Schranz (Ojibwe) — Founder and President of Midwest SOARRING Foundation, elder, educator, and longtime activist for Indigenous peoples. With more than 55 years of community leadership and involvement in the American Indian Movement in Illinois, Joseph brings deep experience in cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, repatriation, and Indigenous lifeways.

In this session, Joseph will introduce participants to Indigenous teaching ways, including an accessible overview of the Medicine Wheel and its meanings. He’ll speak to the Circle of Life, the four colors of humankind, and the ways different tribes interpret the wheel’s teachings.

Through story, symbolism, and open conversation, we’ll explore how these teachings illuminate our relationship with each other, the earth, and all living beings. Joseph will share perspectives on caring for the land, recognizing the healing power of the natural world, and practices such as smudging. There will be time for questions, reflection, and dialogue.

Your participation directly supports Midwest SOARRING Foundation, whose work includes:

• Facilitating repatriation and protecting sacred sites

• Supporting Indigenous nations with environmental and cultural issues• Expanding bison restoration efforts across the country

• Encouraging seed and plant sharing between tribe

• Teaching self-sufficiency in water and food resources

• Offering cultural trips to experience Indigenous communities

• Educating the public to build stronger, more respectful connections

All are welcome. Please join us in learning with humility, respect, and curiosity.

$20 ticket

$25 at the door