NASA’s Timeline

The Native American Student Association (NASA) was founded in 1972, emerging from a powerful movement of student activism and a deep commitment to institutional change. From its earliest days, NASA has been a force for advocacy, community, and cultural celebration at the University of Michigan.

Over the years, NASA has grown and evolved, shaping the campus through its annual powwow, ongoing activism, and unwavering commitment to Native students. Whether through bold acts of resistance, quiet moments of connection, or tireless service to the broader Native community, every step has been built on the labor, love, and vision of those who came before us.

This timeline honors that history. It highlights key moments of activism, celebration, and community-building—from large-scale movements to the everyday efforts that sustain and strengthen our presence at UM. As this project grows, more moments will be added, ensuring that the stories of those who paved the way are remembered and honored.

Click on each point in the timeline to learn more about the events, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped NASA’s journey.  This is our history—built by those who came before us and carried forward by each new generation.

Timeline

1971

Native Student files lawsuit against UM

Native Student files lawsuit against UM

The Native American Student Association was founded at a moment of significant activism and resistance on campus. Paul Johnson, an Anishinaabe football player at UM filed a lawsuit against the university on behalf of the descendants of signatories of the 1817 Treaty of Ft. Miegs. This lawsuit tried to legally require the university to fulfill stipulations in the treaty regarding the education of Anishinaabe youth. Despite ultimately losing the case, Johnson’s heroic efforts to bring attention to the treaty and to the needs of Native students contributed to UM investing in Native students in alternate modes, such as support for..Read More

1972

First Meeting

Anthony L. Genia (Ottawa-Choctaw) is appointed as the University of Michigan’s Native American Recruiter, focusing on equitable admissions and program development. The University of Michigan Native American Student Association (UM-NASA) announces its first meeting on November 13 to formalize its structure and address the growing number of Native American students, aiming to enhance representation and cultural alignment with university policies.

The first meeting of NASA was on November 13, 1972.

1973

First Powwow

First Powwow

The first powwow was March 31, 1973.

1975

Dedicated Cultural Space

Dedicated Cultural Space

NASA members advocated and protested for the construction of a dedicated cultural space in 1975

1987

Dance for Mother Earth

A poster for a 'Pow Wow' event featuring a black-and-white illustration of a young child dressed in traditional regalia, including fringed garments and beaded designs. The child holds a small bow and arrow. The text indicates event details: 'Saturday 1 pm & 7 pm, Sunday 1 pm, Sports Coliseum, Ann Arbor,' set against a vibrant yellow background with simple border framing. The illustration is signed 'S. Otto -87,' denoting the artist and year.

The Dance for Mother Earth powwow celebrated its 14th birthday in 1987

1999

List of Demands

List of Demands

NASA presented the university with a list of demands to improve UM in 1999

2000

Occupation of the Michigamua

Occupation of the Michigamua

In February 2000 NASA students began a weeks long occupation of the Michigamua headquarters in the Union Tower

2013

Mother Earth powwow celebrated its 40th birthday

A striking image shows the back of a dancer adorned in vibrant regalia during a cultural event. The purple shawl features intricate star patterns, colorful beadwork, and flowing multicolored fringe, complemented by detailed floral designs. The setting appears to be an indoor arena, with other participants visible in the background.

The Dance for Mother Earth powwow celebrated its 40th birthday in 2013 in the Crisler Center.

2018

NASA’s governing structure and mission continue

NASA’s governing structure and mission continue

NASA’s governing structure and mission continue to be refined with each generation of student leaders

2020

Covid-19

Covid-19

In the covid-19 pandemic NASA members were still able to create spaces for community through virtual events

2022

50th Anniversary

50th Anniversary

NASA celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022