News — 27 July 2011
Hundreds of people came out to celebrate family wellness at the Eagle Lake First Nation community from July 12 to 14.
Fourteen First Nations participated in the event, with most of the children being in care.
The theme of this year’s event is “Living the good life”, and this is the tenth year the celebrations have taken place.
Partnered with Anishinaabe Abinoojii Family Services, the purpose of the event is to promote family wellness, uniting families, teaching families to play together, eat together, and take some risks together.
The event focused on the medicine wheel concept, promoting holistic healing as well as tapping into spirituality.
Some of the activities that took place during the three day event were cultural teachings, medicine making, men’s and women’s roles, traditional skirt making and ribbon shirt making.
Stone carving was also demonstrated to many of the youth, and they were taught about the stone of the area being sacred, called “The spirit of the rock.”
Children carved arrows, bears, and other small projects they were able to complete in the time alloted.
Focus was put on mental health promoting laughter, having fun, and creating safe environments.
Another main theme of the event was a healthy, active lifestyle. All catered meals were healthy, including snacks and beverages.
Live entertainment was offered every evening, and participants worked on building trust among each other.
Other teachings included feelings, anti-bullying, and keeping fears at bay of common social stereotypes.
“I hope we have something like this every year. It’s time to do something healthy, live a stress free life and be with nature,” said Tina Copenace, Director of Service for Anishinaabe Abinoojii Family Services.
By Ally Dunham
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