Today, June 21, 2023, Canada celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day. It was first celebrated in 1996 and this is a day to recognize and celebrate the cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples from across Canada.
OMWA Executive Director, Ed Houghton reflects on an important person in his life who embraced and contributed to his Indigenous heritage.
“On this important day, like every day, I will keep Geewadin Elliot of Neyaashiinigmiing in my mind and more importantly in my heart. Geewadin tragically started his journey to the spirit world much too early in his life on April 4, 2023. In this life, Geewadin was many things, Police Officer, Band Member and most recently the Manager, Indigenous Relations at Aecon Group but more importantly he was a natural born leader and he celebrated every aspect of his Indigenous Heritage and where possible followed the teachings of his hero, his late father, Arthur (Butch) Elliot.
I spent September 30th, 2022 Truth & Reconciliation Day with Geewadin learning and understanding the ways of our heritage. Geewadin wrote in a social media post the following:
Spent September 30 with my new found Uncle, my Dad’s bundle and powagan. We prayed together for healing and understanding on top of a bluff at Neyaashiinigmiing, my home. I don’t normally share ceremony on social media platforms like LinkedIn but this is not a normal day. Over the years I have shared my personal story with those who would benefit from it. If you know what it’s like to have a blanket for a door of sheets for window drapes then you most likely feel the real pain of today.
Grief killed many children forced into assimilation. The families that waited for them to return home, died from Grief. I hope everyone can understand why it matters to always include and speak the truth when reconciliation language is used. Indigenous people will lead the way but we cannot achieve reconciliation without including TRUTH!
On this day, June 21st, Summer Solstice, Geewadin I will remember what you taught me and will continue to embrace our Indigenous People.”