Tribal Observer Issue: August 15, 2000
Tribal Elder Sandy Smith has sewn free baby blankets for Native American newborns
for the last seven years.
Smith, who is housekeeper for the Behavioral Health Department, often gives
her creations away at the semiannual Baby Celebrations which take place at the
Elijah Elk Cultural Center.
Native American rap artist Litefoot made music his tool to motivate minors
at a recent concert.
“Have you asked the creator what he wants you to do?” asked Litefoot to the
few dozen Native youth he invited up on stage with him during a motivational
segment of his performance. “If you haven’t asked him what he wants you to do,
you’re wasting your time.”
[Editor’s note: Joelle Peters was crowned Junior Miss Saginaw Ojibwe Princess
on Aug. 6. One criteria used to judge the candidates was their public speaking
ability. However, due to weather and time constraints, the candidates were not
able to do their presentations on stage in front of the majority of the powwow
participants. The following is Joelle’s speech in its entirety]:
Boozhoo Anishnaabek and welcome to everyone attending the 16th Annual Little
Elk’s Retreat “Honoring the Eagle” Powwow.
Although plans are well underway, the 16th Annual Little Elks Retreat Powwow
Committee is still looking for volunteers, dancers, drummers and even a princess
or two.
Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas. The committee needs people to
help set up the arbor about a week before the powwow. They also need people
to help collect cedar which will be set up just before the event.
People can also help with registration, setting up chairs and collecting trash.
“On behalf of the committee, I’d like to say thanks to all the volunteers and
hope they return next year,” stated committee member Darcy Sprague.
The heartbeat of the Tribal Nations pulsated through host drum “Bear Creek
Singers” and special invite “Eyabay” at the 16th Annual Little Elk’s Retreat
“Honoring the Eagle” Powwow.
Bear Creek won last year’s contest therefore receiving the honor of being this
year’s host drum.
A recent language camp helped local cultural representatives tap one of the community’s rare resources — Ojibwe speakers.
The event took place Aug. 13 to 18 at the Saginaw Chippewa Campgrounds. Attendees were encouraged to camp on site and to bring their tape recorders. The “Ojibwe Mowin Gawbayshiwin” or Ojibwe Language Camp is an annual event. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe volunteered to host this year’s activities.
If you can read this my program worked!
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