The Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation have issued the following message to friends, neighbours and supporters in acknowledgement of the sincere sympathy extended to their community and members. They say that condolences mean the world to them during this difficult time of sorrow and disbelief, and they wish to say:
Chi-Meegwetch (Thank you)
Light Up The Lake: On July 1, 2021 beginning at 8:30 p.m., the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation invite neighbours and friends to join their event Light Up The Lake. Their Algonquin Drum will beat loud along the shores of Golden Lake and a Candlelight Vigil will help to light the way home to the Creator for all these precious souls. If you wish to join in solidarity and light candles, place them at the end of your dock or along the shores. The show of friendship and support is greatly appreciated in this difficult time. Above: orange ribbons on the Pikwakanagan bridge. Photo Sharon Gardiner.
Council of Canadians event: To promote community education, the Kitchissippi-Ottawa Valley Chapter of the Council of Canadians plans a respectful presence on Algonquin Territory. Gather at the Pembroke Courthouse, 297 Pembroke St. East, at 1:45 p.m. on July 1, 2021. Bring percussion instruments and placards. Wear orange or purple or both. The procession will walk four blocks west to the Pembroke Bridge, arriving at 2:15 p.m. Speak, listen, sing, reflect, or pray in your own way. (Follow all COVID public health protocols.)
If you are unable to join the Kitchissippi-Ottawa Valley group in Pembroke on July 1st, they ask you go to the nearest bridge and tie orange and purple ribbons to the rails. Orange is the colour associated with the “Every Child Matters” campaign initiated by IRS survivor Phyllis Webster. The colour purple represents the physical harm inflicted on so many innocent children during Canada’s 100-year program of trying to “take the Indian out of the child” through federally-funded, church-run residential schools. Bridges are suggested because Canadians must step up to build bridges of understanding and solidarity for justice.
“If you can’t join us in Pembroke on July 1st, our group would appreciate a photo of you tying ribbons
on a bridge near your home. You can send these to kitchissippiottawacocchapter@gmail.com or find us on FaceBook. All photos will be included in a communication to the Pikwakanagan Chief and Band Council to share with their community,” said Ann Pohl, on behalf of the local chapter of the Council of Canadians. “It is a first step, as neighbours, to show we are listening, paying attention, and we care.”
Pohl,A.,Kitchissippi-OttawaValley Chapter of Council of Canadians(2021,June18) Honour the Spirits of the Missing Indigenous Children [media advisory]
Who would put large flower boxes on a bridge sidewalk that children cross on their bicycle and either hit the boxes avoiding cars and trucks or getting run over by them.
As far as the Indigenous Children please add their names to the Canadian Martyrs Chruch in Combermere so we shall pray for them and never forget them.