Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation conduct blanketing ceremony

KETTLE AND STONEY POINT FIRST NATION–In an emotional ceremony that was a movement by the Community of Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation (KSPFN), the Newly Elected Chief and Council were gifted and wrapped in a blanket.

Rather than using a process that has been forced upon Indigenous People through colonization, such as swearing in, the Chief and Council of KSPFN did commit to office by a blanketing ceremony this past weekend along the beautiful shores of KSPFN.

In wrapping the Chief and Council, it was the community’s way of welcoming and showing them that they are there to support them as their leaders, and that they have faith that they will make good decisions for all of the community. They are also showing them that they care and are there to help as well. By accepting the blankets, the Chief and Council accept their new roles in the community.

It was a powerful community movement towards decolonizing. And it is a firm step forward in reclaiming their way of life, traditions, culture and a step way from the Indian Act.

The day was followed by and finished with a community feast and celebration.

Chief: Jason Henry

Council: Vince George Sr, Marshall George, Lincoln Jackson, David Henry, Al Wolfe, Jane Manning, Liz Cloud and Liz Stevens. Missing from photo is Pete Cloud.