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 submits response to proposed findings on federal recognition

 DATE: Friday, March 1, 2024 Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians submits response to proposed findings on federal recognition  Response provides comprehensive and indisputable evidence why the tribe should be reaffirmed by U.S. Department of the Interior GRAND RAPIDS – The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians this week submitted a 148-page response to the… Continue reading