M’CHIGEENG—It was a beautiful day on the morning of July 1—the sun was shining, the birds were singing and Pinewood Park was quiet with the occasional sound of a child’s laughter. As the early morning preparations were underway for the first community picnic, residents stopped by to say hello and express how excited they were to have an event hosted in the children’s playground of Pinewood Park. This community picnic marks the first event sponsored by the chief and council of M’Chigeeng to be hosted in Pinewood Park.
As the time came near for the festivities to begin, the park came alive with colourful balloons and decorations, with games ready to be played, live music to be enjoyed and food to be eaten. The imminent excitement of having friends and families gather for this celebration was felt by all volunteers, which included Cherilynn Ense, Marlene Debassige and Danielle Blackbird. Elders Alma Jean Migwans and Eria Panamick provided the ceremonial cleansing of the area.
As community members arrived (even community members from as far away as Toronto), Councillors Debbie Debassige and Linda Debassige were there to welcome them with big smiles and a welcoming to be remembered by all! Chief Joseph Hare greeted all community members and was seen with a big smile and a lot of chuckles. Local musicians, consisting of Councillor Victor Migwans, John Laford, Dave Southwind, Sheldon Migwans and John McMaster, began to play old time favourites along with the occasional fiddle solo by Victor Migwans. The M’Chigeeng Fire Department set up a swimming pool for the children to play in throughout the day. Games were played by both children and adults with the ultimate prize being the laughter from onlookers. The UCCM Tribal Police were in attendance, showing their community spirit by their participation. The barbecue meal was prepared by Councillor Charles Beaudin Jr., Deputy Chief Brian Bisson and Howard Corbiere, with Earl Debassige and the Public Works Department staff ensuring they had all that they needed to cook for approximately 200 people.
Throughout the festivities many positive comments were made by community members such as, “this is so awesome,” “the best day ever” and “it was a good day and nice to see our community get together for good events for us to enjoy.” The underlying message of ‘United We Are Strong and United We Stand’ was clearly felt and witnessed on this special day. The M’Chigeeng community spirit is alive and well!
As the day began to conclude, a community round dance and a children’s giveaway was held. As community members began to leave, their comments were those of gratefulness and thankfulness.
In the fashion of our ancestors, everyone left with a sense of belonging, of love, of laughter, of unity and happiness, and of course, with full bellies.
Always remembered are those that have gone onto the spirit world and their presence that day was felt by all as they helped bring the beautiful weather and beautiful people. This will be an annual event and is one small way that we can help put the word ‘unity’ back into community.
Smiles and laughter filled the air on July 1 in Pinewood Park and will be a day that will be remembered by all.
