Each year, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on residential schools and the painful consequences they still have on people and First Nations. Locally, this day was highlighted in front of the Sainte-Perpétue-de-L’Islet church with various activities.
An event funded locally by the Chaudière-Appalaches Regional Social Economy Table (TRÉSCA) with an amount of around $1,500, this activity was organized by the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation. “Today, as part of September 30, we are here to raise awareness among the population about our past and present reality,” declared to Placoteux Ivanie Aubin-Malo, contemporary dance and powwow artist.
It was also an opportunity for Ms. Aubin-Malo to present a project from the MRC de L’Islet connected to a tricycle fat bike red electric, in connection with the Creative Caravans set up to support the development of the offer of cultural mediation activities through the deployment of mobile units in the MRC of L’Islet. These units, whether they are trailers, trailers, recreational vehicles (RVs), or any other vehicle, aim to directly reach the different audiences in the area.
“We share the vehicle with two organizations, including Terre à Terre. We can disguise it in our own way, and we tour the MRC. It’s a bit like a mini-nomadic cultural center, and I decorate it in the colors of my indigenous nation,” she adds.
A renowned chef from the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk nation, Maxime Lizotte, also came to the site to introduce some of their specialties. These appetizers were greatly appreciated by the many curious people who came to the event.
Overall, it was a beautiful day, where the local population became familiar with the history, customs and songs of the indigenous nations. “We are here to revitalize our culture, and the promotion of this culture is done together,” concludes Ms. Aubin-Malo.
History
The Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation, formerly called the Maliseet First Nation of Viger, is the only Wolastoqey Nation in Quebec. Six other Wolastoqey Nations are found in New Brunswick. After the loss of the Viger reserve lands in 1869, the community dispersed across the territories of Quebec, Canada and the United States.
Today, the First Nation has a small reserve land in Cacouna, in the MRC of Rivière-du-Loup, and the members form a diaspora spread throughout Quebec and beyond. Several members of the Nation still go to Wolastokuk, ancestral territory, to practice traditional activities.
Related News :