Youth share vision for future of Anishinabek Nation
By Marci Becking
NIPISSING FIRST NATION – When two young women from the remote community of Namaygoosisagagun First Nation heard about the three-day Eshkeniiji (youth) Engagement to be held in Beaucage Park this week, they jumped at the opportunity. Even if it means a train ride then a 14-hour drive from Armstrong, Ontario.
“I live in my community during the summer and school breaks,” says 18 year-old Kristin Meesheetowageesic Wynn. “When we attend high school we board with strangers in Thunder Bay.”
Wynn has been doing that since Grade 8. Her small elementary school – which had an enrollment of five students this year, serves the on-reserve population of 40.
“There are a lot of Elders and young children who live on reserve,” says Wynn who will be attending an Adult Learning Centre this fall. “There is limited housing but we’re now getting a four-plex for the Elders.”
Wynn and her friend Natasha Frank were two of 70 youth registrants from all over Anishinabek Nation territory. They came from the furthest north and Arnold Yellowman from Aamjiwnaang First Nation located near Sarnia, came from the furthest south.
“This is an awakening of sorts for youth,” says Yellowman. “This is a gathering where youth can define future roles as leaders in our communities. They will also learn about the Anishinabek Nation constitution – the Chi-Naaknigewin and hopeful encourage their Chiefs to adopt their own constitutions.”
Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee says that the event gives the youth, who came from 25 of the 39 communities, a chance to network and exchange ideas.
“I hope that they develop a shared vision for themselves and their communities,” says Grand Council Chief. “Many of the youth are seeking their culture, what they want to be and do and they are eager to learn and share. This gathering is important for many who have leadership aspirations and will be taking care of our communities in the future.”
The Eshkeniiji Engagement was hosted through the joint effort with the Union of Ontario Indians Restoration of Jurisdiction, HIV/AIDS program, Intergovernmental Affairs and Communications departments.
Kelly Crawford, Community Relations Officer for ROJ says that this is a chance for the youth voices to be heard.
“I hope that the youth feel confident in sharing their individual vision and manage to collectively put their visions together and move forward as one youth voice for the Nation,” says Crawford.
Jody Cotter, HIV/AIDS department coordinator, says that she loves the spontaneous drumming at the lake and the development of life-long friendships.
“We had a sacred fire going since the start of our event, everyone is talking and sharing teachings,” says Cotter. “There’s a lot of pride here and that’s so great to see.”
Stan Wesley, MC for the event from Moose Cree, made sure the youth mingled and really got to know each other through team challenges and fun games.
Follow the event on Twitter #ANEE13