A story of resilience: Family and healing in Garden River
By Lesa Boissoneau
GARDEN RIVER FIRST NATION — My story begins with acknowledging my Grandfather Fredrick Erskine Pine who made a huge impact on my life as he was a powerful Shaman who fought in both World Wars. Together with his wife, Elizabeth, they adopted their one and only son, Peter. Peter is my father and Agnes Colleen Tegosh is my mother, they raised seven children – six girls and one boy (smack dab in the middle of the girls). I am the second youngest of the tribe.
And so, my story begins with my Grandparents Fred and Elizabeth adopting their beautiful son and later to become grandparents to seven. My father somehow fell through the cracks and was never accepted as a Status Indian nor accepted by the Band. Later in life, we came to realize this and wondered why as we also were misplaced throughout the school years, and well into adult life. We were not considered Status nor white, but rather called “half-breeds” and labelled as Bill C-31 or affiliated status. We stood our ground proving our lineage on our mother’s side and my father gaining his status through the adoption clause. Today, we are still here, we fought for our rights as Anishinabek and we are very proud of who we are and yes, we are resilient and proud to tell our truth.
I would like to circle back to the man that started this all: my Papa Fred.
Throughout his life, he never talked about the hardships of war, the muddy trenches filled with cold water and rats, the terrible sounds of bombs, gun fire, or even the wounds, pains, or hunger endured during these unforgettable times we learned about from books! He did; however, smile, and had a gentle demeanour about him as he talked of the land, medicines, water, starry nights, and the love of family. Papa always made us laugh and was never harsh with us but forgiving and loved us dearly.
I have learned to laugh at myself when I fail or make mistakes as nobody is perfect nor better than anyone. Today, I embrace my Ojibwe-ness, and I strive to learn and use my Anishinaabemowin daily whenever I can, knowing that I will never be fluent but I am very proud to be who I am, as I am beautiful Mishko Waagosh Kwe and still here!
I hope you enjoyed my story and take away the resilience of never giving up, learn to laugh at your mistakes, and forgive yourself first. Be kind in this cruel world.
Kitchi Miigwetch to my beautiful parents, Peter and Goozie, my Grandparents, Fred and Elizabeth, and of course, my siblings Pam, Peg, Maxine, Peter, Dianne, and Nancy. I dedicate this to my loving family, for their kindness, determination, and through the power of prayer.
Miigwetch, Mishko Waagosh Kwe
About the Author:
Aniin Mishko Waagosh Kwe ndiishnakas. Hi, I am known as red fox woman or Lesa. Kete gaunseebee ndonjibaa, I am from Garden River First Nation born and raised here on our beautiful territory.