Special thanks to our wonderful speakers and drummers. Elaine Kicknosway opened the evening with her son, performing a beautiful prayer song. Long after the song was over, people remained standing in awe. Seriously.
She was followed by Elder Annie st. George, of the Algonquin nation. Annie spoke with heartfelt passion about the poverty of the remote reserves, the importance of sharing, and the tragedy of teen suicides among natives. Her soft voice captivated the audience.
Keynote speaker Cindy Blackstock was captivating. She spoke of the meaning and symbolism of totem poles, and of the plight of native children. She discussed the ongoing fight for equal rights for children: the right decent schools, the right to safe housing and hope for a future.
Grand Chief Stan Louttit talked about his ongoing work to hold the government accountable for its promises ad treaties. He spoke specifically of Attawapiskat's fight for a school. He was a powerful speaker and the audience was very moved by his words.
The last up before we started the dancing was Peaceflame Drummers. It was a clear case of last but not least.
Then we announced the art auction and started the dancing!
Some of the big auction winners were Tom Ormsby of Debeers winning the Jonathan Cheechoo hockey jersey, and the Shaun Hedican oil painting "Diamonds are forever".
Gilles Boisvert won several original oils by Shaun Hedican. Amy Bombay won an original oil by Mark Seabrook (one of my personal favourites!)
Celine Dorion was thrilled to not only win Dave O'Brien's "Rose Moon", but to get to meet the artist.
Must sleep now, more tomorrow!
And soon.... photos!
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