What began as an opportunity to gather and share information has grown into a longstanding tradition of listening, learning, and staying connected.
For years, MLCV’s Bi-Wiidoopamishinaang Elder Events have brought Mille Lacs Band Elders and MLCV leaders together to share updates, ask questions, exchange ideas, and stay connected.
The name Bi-Wiidoopamishinaang means “come eat with us,” and reflects the intention behind this commitment — bringing people together to share a meal, conversation, and connection.
Each Bi-Wiidoopamishinaang gathering begins with traditions that have become familiar to attendees. An invocation opens the gathering, birthdays are recognized with a rendition of “Happy Birthday” in Ojibwe, and Elders share a meal together after presentations conclude.
Throughout the event, conversations continue between rounds of bingo, prize drawings, and updates from MLCV leaders and staff. Over coffee and a shared meal, laughter gives way to conversations about family, the community, and its future. Around the room, Elders ask questions, share stores, and offer perspectives shaped by generations of experience.
— William “Willie” Premo,
District III Elder, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe
Why Elder Events Matter
One story that continues to stand out came from District III Elder William “Willie” Premo, who travels more than 120 miles roundtrip to attend the Elder Events. When asked why he makes the drive, his answer was simple:
“I come because I get a good meal, receive updates, and they treat me good here.”
For Community Engagement Officer Jaeden King, that simple answer captures what organizers hope every Elder experiences — a welcoming space where Elders feel respected, informed, and valued.
The conversations often extend beyond presentations and updates. Elders ask questions, share ideas, and offer feedback on topics impacting both the community — and the enterprise.
— Jaeden King
Community Engagement Officer, MLCV
Learning From Experience
One of the most valuable aspects of Bi-Wiidoopamishinaang is the opportunity to learn from those who helped shape the community.
“Many of the Elders lived through a time before the Grand Casinos were opened, and before many of the businesses we know today existed, which brings a humbling perspective.” — Jaeden King
Those experiences serve as an important reminder of where the Mille Lacs Band has been, and the responsibility future generations have to continue building upon that foundation.
The gatherings also create opportunities for generations to connect. Over the years, MLCV summer interns have helped to plan and participate in Elder Events, introducing themselves to attendees and engaging directly with Elders.
Watching young Band Members sit alongside those who helped to shape the community often becomes one of the most meaningful moments of the day, creating opportunities to share stories, advice, and perspectives across generations of the community they are inheriting.
A Tradition of Listening
One of the most rewarding parts of this gathering is seeing community members reconnect, shared King.
“The relationships built during the Elder Events are important because they remind us that, at the end of the day, our work is about creating opportunities and improving the qualify of life for the Mille Lacs Band community.” — Jaeden King
King believes those relationships are central to the purpose of the gatherings. Over time, those relationships become familiar and personal. Conversations extend beyond business updates and create opportunities for genuine connection between leadership and community members.
Looking Ahead
These bi-monthly gatherings are an opportunity not only to provide updates and gather feedback, but also to learn from those whose experiences helped shape the community that exists today. These gatherings also provide an opportunity to ensure Elder voices remain part of conversations shaping the future of the Band, and its businesses.
Bi-Wiidoopamishinaang is an opportunity to reconnect with friends, share experiences, ask questions, and remain connected to the future of the community they helped build. Through listening, conversation, and shared experiences, the gatherings continue to strengthen relationships between Elders, leadership, and future generations.
I hope every Elder leaves knowing they are respected, appreciated, and recognized for the foundation they have built for all of us,” says King.
Learn more about Jaeden King’s journey, and what inspired her path as the Community Engagement Officer at Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures.
