Tipi teachings bring clan system to life

By Kelly Crawford

NIPISSING FN – Tipis were arranged in the dodemaag (Clan) structure at the Anishinabek Eshkeniijig Engagement 2013 held August 20-22.

Seventy Anishinabek youth participated in workshops called  “tipi teachings” that gave the youth a sample of the roles and responsibilities of the Clan System of Government including; the Anishinabek Education System, First Nations Constitutions, Appeals and Redress, Health, Treaties, Governance, Citizenship and our relationship to land.

The workshops allowed the youth to work in small teams inspired by the seven grandfather teachings, “Youth love smaller groups, especially in a tipi as they give off so much energy”, Said Nathalie Restoule, Dokis First Nation.

Participants were encouraged to share their thoughts at each rotation.

Waawaashkesh (Deer) Clan

“The people of the Anishinabek Nation are the ones who know best. We know where our heritage lies.” Rae-Lyn McGregor, Sagamok Anishnawbek

Mgizi (Eagle) Clan

“We need to incorporate culture into mainstream school systems to prove how important our culture is to us and showing how it can reduce stereotypes and stigma in the schools.” Desiree Sands, Nipissing First Nation

Ajijaak (Crane) Clan

“The creator gave us permission to be nations.” Karleigh Kurek, Aundeck Omni Kaning

Mshiikenh (Turtle) Clan 

“I would never want to sell our land or our resources. We should use our land respectfully.” Natasha Frank, Namaygoosisagagun

Maang (Loon) Clan

“A constitution would benefit my community by making my people stronger and independent.” Kelly Stevens, Nipissing

Mukwa (Bear) Clan

“To be a leader at any level whether it be self, community or Nation, we need to be healthy so we are stable and able to “walk the talk.” Jacklynn Irvine, Michipicoten

Waabizheshii (Marten) Clan

“We should incorporate sacred sites into everyday life and action.” Stefanie Recollet, Wahnapitae First Nation