Woman's voice heard again

Page 4

Dear Editor,

I was delighted to see the article Women's voices . . . in your December issue and even more honored to find myself named. I thank the writer for including my comments, but would like to make a few corrections.

Firstly, I am not a fluent Cree speaker, though I hope someday I will be able to say so and speak with the eloquence the Cree language provides. I do currently live in Meadow Lake, but am originally from Alberta - my mother being from Kikino/Lac La Biche and our family currently involved in the Passpasschasis re-entitlement battle (through my maternal great-grandfather).

I moved from Toronto to here in northwest Saskatchewan a couple of years ago to learn Cree. I realized I'd never accomplish it any other way. I'm influenced by Elders I've met who encourage me to continue to try and speak and to repeat the words I have learned. By doing this, I am being corrected constantly, but I also learn to hear better as well as understand sounds and concepts better, ever expanding my vocabulary. I still have to endure much teasing and laughter, but the delight and happy gazes I am bestowed with are worth the effort. Each day when I understand a little more of a conversation or learn a new word makes me feel more and more fulfilled.

My comments about Emma Larocque where told during a heartfelt moment during a workshop and so a few points I didn't make are important to mention. I believe every nation needs its songs for power and well-being, and so since I am a singer and performer this is what I can offer - my voice, passionate and strong.

Now, please allow me to mention the other wonderful, talented and inspirational women who participated: Carol Adams, Sylvia Cloutier, Sheila Maracle, Gloria Miguel, Joanne Neepin, Wendy Prince-Moore, Cathy Sewell, Sherryl Sewepagaham, Michelle St. John, Alexandra Thomson, Lorraine Villebrun and Wanda Wuttenee.

Kininaskomitin,

Cheryl L'Hirondelle-Waynohtew