Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians

The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians is a native sovereign nation based along the Grand River and other waterways in present-day Southwest Michigan, spanning the cities of Grand Rapids and Muskegon.

The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians is a native sovereign nation with agreements with the federal government dating back to 1795.

The Grand River Bands originally included 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and other waterways in southwest Michigan. Most of the Grand River Bands’ current membership resides in Kent, Muskegon and Oceana counties.

Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians gathering

Federal Recognition

The Grand River Bands have been working to gain federal recognition for nearly 30 years, and the lack of recognition has hindered the tribes’ ability to access resources.

grand river band of ottawa indians

News & Updates

Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians continues advocacy for federal recognition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023 CONTACT: Sydney Smith, Byrum & Fisk Advocacy Communications, ssmith@byrumfisk.com, 586-212-3103  LANSING – The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians pledged to continue their advocacy for federal recognition and address additional information requested by the U.S. Department of the Interior.  “While we disagree with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s… Continue reading