by Tanya Johnson-MacVicar & Potlotek Education Office
From November 24th to the 26th, Potlotek Community members were invited to attend three days of Celebration. On the first night community members held a Red Dress ceremony to honour and acknowledge the missing and murdered women in Canada paying special acknowledgement to the women in the surrounding area. Red dresses were hung along the #4 highway to raise awareness and initiate conversation.
On the second night, Wilma Simon, joined community members and held a Sisters in Spirit Ceremony. Local missing and murdered Mi’kmaw men, women and children were recognized and candles were lit for each individual. Special guest speaker Robert Pictou spoke about his sister, he talked about how her story and missing status changed his life and his family’s life. He also shared some of the work that he has been doing to bring a voice to Indigenous Missing and Murdered women in Canada.
The night ended with a Regalia showcase that highlighted the work of many community members. A project to create and design traditional regalia, funded by the Department of Culture and Heritage Support 4 Culture, was showcased. Many laughs and hugs were shared that evening to support and acknowledge the work that had been done. A presentation of special thanks and appreciation was given to Arlene Marshall and Anita Basque and all of the participants to took part in the project. The night ended with a documentary, Highway of Tears, and sandwiches, sweets and beverages were served.
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