My Park Story: Nate Meshake

Nate Meshake, Visitor Services Specialist

NPS Photo / G.M. Spoto

Accomplishment

Boozhoo! Nate Zhaaoskobiiniies Meshake indizhinikaaz. Mizay nindoodem.
Animikii-wiikwedong indoonjibaa. Gichi-onigamiing indaa. Miigwech. Mii iw.

Hello! My name is Nate (Blue Thunderbird) Meshake. My clan is ling (burbot).
I come from Thunder Bay (Ontario). I live in Grand Portage. Thank you.

I moved to Grand Portage about eight years ago and started working at the Monument last summer. I choose to work here to spend more time outside and for the healthy work environment, which helps me maintain my sobriety. The chance to engage with my culture and help pass it on to younger generations gives me a sense of purpose. For example, showing them how to gather birchbark by first offering tobacco in gratitude.

My current role is to tell Anishinaabe stories. Talking to large groups of people helps me come out of my shell. The biggest surprise working here is how well everyone works together – staff and volunteers from different origins – and so I can be who I am.