G8 Officially Arrives

With our usual route into town being closed off and OPP on literally every corner, we weren't sure what we would be able to see or participate in. The physical barrier, the military presence and the crazy amount of police officers felt very intrusive at first, and while a part of that doesn't go away the overall feel in town was quite different. The OPP were extremely friendly, chatting with people, discussing everything from our community to where they were from. It was a relaxed friendly vibe that was created.

The community doors were open, prayer vigils in churches, art displays in the town hall and the library, the store fronts had displays, the sidewalks sent messages of love and peace. On either side of the road you get a free hug that was being offered. There was lots to just sit back and watch. The media alone was pretty cool to observe. Cameras, videographers, network trucks everywhere. At one point a car was over heating, letting off a ton of smoke and an awful smell. The media bolted in that direction, hopeful I am sure for something a little more dramatic.

There was a lot of talk around town. People discussed the waste of money spent on the conference, the change it could have made in the world if spent differently. Big issues were on the corner, literally. I talked with one couple about maternal health and where it might go in the discussions between the world leaders. Another person feared the consequences of the oil spill and the lack of urgency from world leaders to DO something. There wasn't much faith in the talks producing results.

Now that the G8 has moved to the G20 in Toronto, the wall is coming down, the helicopters have stopped and the amount of blue around town is not nearly so great, I feel different. There was a lot of talk originally about showcasing our community and the beautiful lakes and nature we live among. With a fake lake set up in a media centre miles away, sadly, there was no need to do this. I do think, we showcased our community to itself. I feel as though this town got to see a little bit more of each other, see the talent and beauty it has to offer EACH OTHER. That we moved a few steps closer, we met more neighbours, opened up a bit more to being part of the larger. That has been a great thing.

National Aboriginal Day

To celebrate National Aboriginal Day a pow wow was held for the first time in the area. The event was entitled Unity Pow wow , with the hopes of drawing to the attention of the G8 leaders the desire for peace and unity among all nations while also celebrating the First Nations culture and people in the area. Despite the intense sun (wow was it hot!) there were vendors, artisans, forums, and lots of dancing.

Before the opening ceremonies we had the chance to walk around and watch some crafts being made. We were blown away by the talent of one woman in particular who kindly demonstrated for us how to use porcupine quills to decorate and create birch bark containers. She shared with us how the quills change over the seasons, spring being the best time to collect them. The importance of soaking them for just the right amount of time and the perfect ingredients for natural dyes. Her boxes were so detailed and beautifully crafted.

The actual opening ceremony was long and drawn out. Every dignitary and community leader took the opportunity to address those in attendance, which took a long time. There were flags from all the communities brought into the arena (a circular area roped off for the ceremony, with the drum at the centre under a wooden structure), honouring the leaders, veterans, service providers and the community.

The event was physically nestled among rock cliffs and trees. It was just right. We are hoping it is a yearly event.

Dancers

The dancing at the powwow was beautiful to watch. The regalia worn by the men, women and children were from different areas and for different types of dances. There were ribbons, bells, feathers, beads, shells, embroidery, colour, leather, needles, cotton, fur, all moving in a beautiful flowing motion to the beat of the drum. We each had our favorite dancers, but really they were all a treat to watch.

Our Turn

Everyone attending the pow wow was invited to join in the dancing. The dancers were encouraging, sharing the how to's if people were inclined. The kids and there friends all took off their shoes and followed the beat of the drum. It was great to watch them enjoying themselves with their friends. Seeing Elias in hand with his four and thirteen year old friends making their way around the circle.

There were spot dances with prices, round dances where everyone held hands and dances to just strut your stuff. Shai and joined the group, which was as much fun as watching!

Remembrance Day

We are the Dead. Short days ago.

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.



John McCrae