Upcoming events at Seventh Generation
Observer Staff
1/15/2004 12:00:00 AM
The Seventh Generation and Behavioral Health programs would like to invite everyone to some evening programming designed for this Tribal community just for wintertime. Traditional wintertime activities historically have been specific. Because of the weather limitations, most communities were prepared for inside work during the long winter months. As most of you know, some things just don't change much and so it is today we need to get together and work on some things that are not as practical for the summer months. Most families are very busy with gardening or gathering, while others plan their vacations and powwows trips during the summer months.
Rather than wait until Aug. 1 to get the kid's regalia together, repair moccasins, get a new ribbon shirt sewn or even try that new design for an extra shawl, we are offering a place and time for all to come together and work. It is the belief that there is much collective wisdom in this community in many different areas. So here is the opportunity for evening socials as well as real wintertime work to be accomplished. All attendees must bring their own projects and materials. We are offering a place to work and opportunity for consulting with others who are devoted to finishing their project.
The following schedule is designed for the working person to have the opportunity to get home create a meal and get your project together and bring it to the Seventh Generation kitchen area for your chance to get advise or offer your assistance to another.
MONDAY 6-9 p.m.
Cloth work Shawls- Ribbons Shirts- Skirts
Since the sewing machines will be out and fine yard goods spread all over the tabletops, we need to require the young ones stay home for the evening activities.
TUESDAY 5:30-9 p.m.
Woman Circle
This event has been happening for quite some time now. On this evening we ask that you bring a dish to pass to add to what has been prepared by the Seventh Generation kitchen. This time has been set aside as a spiritual time for the women to pray and sing together after the weekly talking circle. Because this is a gender specific gathering we encourage the children and grandchildren as well as young ladies to attend. The women come together and learn about more our roles as Native women and offer support to one another with the challenges that may arise in our contemporary lives.
WEDNESDAY 5:30-9 p.m.
Native women craft night
This evening is all about bead work and moccasins and whatever the woman requesting. You need to come and enjoy this evening with the company of other Native women and the light meal provided by Behavioral Health staff.
THURSDAY 6-9 p.m.
Story telling time
Our Native traditional stories are to be spoken during the winter months, and some believe it is the only appropriate time to tell some of these stories. Nanaboozho stories and other stories are encouraged to be spoken by anyone who can recall them. If you remember one of these stories from your childhood you are welcome to share with others that may not have heard the value and morality within the teaching of the story. Everyone is a storyteller and therefore all are welcome to speak and listen. Listening is an acquired skill that starts at a young age, so young people are encourage attending with parents. Native children learn best how to listen and sit quietly when everyone else is doing the same.
The Seventh Generation Program would like to remind the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribal community that tobacco burning takes place two times during every week for your convenience. The Sacred Fire is lit at 11 a.m. and burns until 1 p.m. Food is also offered for those on their lunch hour. Bring your tobacco or you are welcome to offer tobacco that the Seventh Generation program grew just for this purpose.
The Seventh Generation program is located at the Elijah Elk Cultural Center, 7957 E. Remus Road.