Baby Celebration 1-29-15

Joseph V. Sowmick - January 30, 2015

In an effort to provide bonus coverage, Team Observer joins with the Seventh Generation Program, Nimkee Public Health and Youth LEAD to honor the Biinoojins at the Baby Celebration.  The family event was held at the Elijah Elk Ceremonial Building with Seventh Generation Director Beaver Pelcher providing an opening and prayer with the Mino Ode’ Singers offering a hand drum welcome and a Honor Song. 

 

Marlene Syrette, daughter of Hilda and Jerome Syrette from Garden River, First Nations Canada was a the special guest speaker.  Marlene is an Anishinabe Kwe single mother and shared her experience, strength and hope.  “The Great Spirit chose us as parents and we honor our ancestors by being the best parents we can for our Native children,” Syrette said.  “We honor our children in the way our parents taught us and we can embrace those good teachings and pass them to the next generation of Anishinabe.”

 

 

The parents of babies in attendance were given a handmade cedar Eagle feather (crafted at the wood shop by Tribal Elder Ben Hinmon).  Seventh Generation Administrative Assistant II Lee Ann Ruffino provided pictures to insert into the cedar artwork.  Tribal Elder Sandy Smith made blankets and gifted all families in attendance.