Thanksgiving dance honours island Elders

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A Thanksgiving Round Dance in honour of community volunteers was inaugurated Oct. 9 on Manitoulin Island. Ten people from local First Nations were celebrated for their lifelong contributions to community well-being.

The event was organized in memory of Mary Lou Fox (Odemin Kwe), a Manitoulin Elder who made the establishment of the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF) one of her primary goals. A candle was lit in her honour while 10 Elders active in language and culture preservation received Odemin Kwe's eagle feathers.

Odemin Kwe's granddaughter, three-year-old Hanako, was on hand for the tributes.

Sharing the master of ceremonies roles were Kate Roy and Sophie Corbiere representing the OCF, Mariette McGregor director of Noojomowin-Teg Health Services and Dawn Madahbee, director of Waubetek Business Development Corporation. Elder Martin Assiniwe of Sagamok First Nation presided over the ceremonies assisted by Chris Pheasant of Wikwemikong.

Honour songs were performed by the Bear Creek, Poplar and Mskwa Nodin singers.

Among the honorees was Ina Panamick of M'Chigeeng. She is a sought-after counsellor who has travelled far and wide to immerse herself in ceremonies and teachings.

Many committees have benefitted from her insights, including the Native Justice Project.

Decorated Second World War veteran Daisia Nebenionquit travelled from Whitefish Lake to join in the celebration. The former chief has been a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Union of Ontario Indians as well. He is a well-known story-teller and carver.

Carol White, initiator of a summer science camp for children, was commended for her good heart and her good deeds. As a worker with the Manitoulin Legal Clinic and the Mnidoo Mnising Local Delivery Mechanism she has shown that she possesses a soft spot for the less fortunate.

Improving the lives of Aboriginal people has always been a priority for Dr. Lillian McGregor. The Elder-in-Residence at the University of Toronto has been recognized for her efforts to guide youth to higher education. Organizers cited her compassion and her dedication as outstanding traits.

Many are grateful for the contributions of Dr. Jack Bailey. The Manitoulin physician has embraced the natural healing knowledge of Indigenous people and worked as a tireless volunteer to raise funds for the OCF. He has also been active in the Anishnaabe Mekwaatawksagig Council at the Manitoulin Health Centre.

An historic church on the Sheguiandah First Nation has been lovingly restored thanks to the inspiration of Clara Waindubence. This determined Elder has also been instrumental in upgrading local powwow grounds and serving as an advocate for Native language.

Arnelda Jacobs graciously shares her skills in the art of ash basket-making. In addition to serving as a Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Worker for 14 years, she worked on recreation, health and education issues. She has been a member of the OCF advisory board since its inception.

Renowned Birch Island historian Arthur McGregor was also singled out for tribute. As author of the book Wiigwaaskinaagaa and a respected storyteller, McGregor is happy to share his memories and his sense of humour with others on the powwow trail and at home.

His wife Violet McGregor has been his partner in many community projects. As a traditional dancer, creator of fine powwow regalia and a tireless fund-raiser, she is known as a mainstay in the Birch Island community. She volunteers with church and school organizations, as well as the OCF.

Lillian Pitawanakwat has worked long and hard to address substance abuse problems in the community. Her enhanced spiritual gifts have drawn many young people to her for guidance and inspiration.

She never hesitates to offer help to people from all walks of life and has travelled throughout the Americas to help connect Indigenous people in their common struggle.

The celebration also included a feast, giveaway and dancing.

Organizers hope to make theThanksgiving Round Dance an annual event.