Grandmother Josephine’s migration journey – updated

Updated Route for Migration Water Walk

Letter from Josephine Mandamin Lead Waterwalker

Dear Supporters:

Please send this to whomever can respond to my request.

Once again, I am approaching people to assist us with the rental of a van for approximately 2 months.  I am hopeful that you can recognize the importance of refining the role of Native women as life-givers and protectors of water in our country.  I do not ask governments for money because this work is voluntary.  Much has been accomplished; media, newspapers, radio and First Nations/Tribes have become so much more aware of the need for women to protect the water for future generations.

This year our work will be raising awareness of oil spills by train derailments across Ontario and Quebec and including ships that may spill oil as they cross the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. This year we start at Matane, QC on the Migration Waterwalk along the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes. The migration journey will end at Madeline Island, Wisconsin. Just as the original Great Migration of our ancestors we will stop at all the original stopping points until we reach where “food grows on water” (wild rice) and end at Madeline Island.

On the 22nd of June, there will have a reunion with our eastern clans: Pasmaquaddy, Abenaki/Wabanaki, Micmac, Ojibways and all other clans to tell stories of the Great Migration and share the history of our people. Pipes, Tobacco, and Drums will emerge as our sacred stories are shared. The walk will start on the 23rd June 2015. I hope you can be present for this historic event.

It is with great hope that I close, trusting that anyone can help in this very important venture.  If it is impossible for a van rental, alternatively a cash donation would be equally helpful.

Donations can be sent to our Website using the Donations information (and online payments can be made on the WaterWalkersUnited website).

Megwech

Thank you for your anticipated response. I look forward to hearing from you.