In Lansing, Michigan, a new handbook titled "Anishinaabe Law: A Tribal Law Handbook for Michigan Legal Practitioners" has been introduced to law students and practitioners. This initiative coincides with Native American Heritage Month and the fall meeting of the Michigan Tribal State Federal Judicial Forum. The handbook aims to increase awareness of Tribal law among first-year law students and legal professionals in Michigan. It includes an overview of Tribal law, details on Michigan's 12 federally recognized Tribes, and key case law examples relevant to 1L courses.
Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, who serves as the Michigan Supreme Court liaison to Tribal courts on the Forum, expressed her support for this educational resource. "State and federal courts often work collaboratively with Tribal courts across Michigan," she stated. "I am pleased that law students now have this comprehensive resource to help them learn more about Native American Law in our great state." She extended her gratitude by saying, “To our Tribes and our law schools, I say, ‘Miigwech,’ or ‘thank you,’ for making this available.”
The handbook has been distributed to all five law schools in Michigan: Cooley Law School; Michigan State University College of Law; University of Detroit Mercy Law School; University of Michigan Law School; and Wayne State University School of Law.
Taylor Elyse Mills, an attorney with expertise in Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, Immigration Law, and Civil Rights Law, edited the handbook. Dr. Mills also holds a PhD from Michigan State University in "Engaged Philosophy of Law and Policy." She acknowledged those who supported her throughout her career by stating, “Chi miigwech for your support. I am honored to be part of this meaningful project.”
For more information about the Forum, interested parties are encouraged to reach out directly.