Centre celebrates 25 years

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The Ojibway and Cree Cultural Centre celebrated its 25th anniversary on Oct. 25 basking in the encouraging words of a host of dignitaries and old friends.

"The Ojibway and Cree Cultural Centre provides education material for ourselves and others to learn about the people's culture and way of life," said Deputy Grand Chief, Goyce Kakegamic of Nishnawbe-Aski Nation. "This organization plays a vital role for First Nation people to promote and preserve our culture, language, traditions and history. This celebration of 25 years is proof that the Ojibway and Cree Cultural Centre is valued by the First Nation communities it serves and it is important that we continue to support it to promote and preserve our culture and traditions for generations to come," said Kakegamic, who is a centre board member.

Highlights of the ceremonies included an official cake-cutting and a guided walking tour of the centre's program departments. Geordie Kakepetum, executive director of Keewaytinook Okimakanak and a centre board member, served as master of ceremonies for the event, and Elder Willie Wesley of Kashechewan First Nation opened the festivities with a prayer and comments in Cree and English. Wesley is one of the original members of Grand Council Treaty #9, now known as the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation (NAN).

Grand Chief Lawrence Martin of Mushkegowuk Council explained the importance of a First Nation service such as the work done by the centre.

"Within these walls we have an incredible collection of First Nation material in books, videos, education matter and tapes. I am very familiar with the good work that the cultural centre has done over the years and I thank all of those who have contributed to its successes," said Martin.

Mayor Vic Power congratulated the cultural centre on 25 years of service and for contributing to the city of Timmins. Joining him with words of encouragement and praise was Reg Belair, member of parliament for Timmins-James Bay.

Alfred Ojeebah, Wabun Tribal Council Chair, said the Ojibway and Cree Cultural Centre holds a vast resource of First Nations works produced over 25 years of hard work. Bentley Cheechoo, tribal chair of Matawa First Nations Management, stressed the importance of the cultural centre in keeping the language and traditions of First Nation people alive for future generations.

"When I started with the Ojibway and Cree Cultural Centre 25 years ago, I had no idea that today I would be standing here and sharing this milestone in First Nation success with you. I have made many friends over the years and witnessed the development of the centre in servicing First Nation people," said Diane Riopel, executive director.

The centre services a vast area of Northern Ontario First Nation communities. The centre has developed a unique and comprehensive library and resource centre and provides programming in education and language interpretation.