SPECIAL NEWS ALERT ON MAKWA  (bear) AND MAKOONSAG (cubs)

As you can see by the attached news stories, there has been movement in the sleeping bear saga.  However, most of us Anishinaabeg (Indian peoples) and other humans who are protectors of the environment, know only too well how the economic interests and State/federal officials can turn the tables on us if we are not constantly vigilant.  The same is true with Makwa and her spiritual sleep-journey, her birthing, and her inherent right to survive with her offspring.

What is now required is for us, as responsible Anishinabeg, and for others who share the vision of protecting Mother Earth, is to publicly and by means of proper ceremony, honor this relative of ours and her offspring with a feast and ceremony, for in her simple act of "just being there" at just this time, is something more than coincidence.  This relative has provided us humans with the opportunity to unite over the eternal issue of taking versus giving, and we now need to fulfill our obligations to our sacred creator and our ancestors and relatives. 

We must always remember, that when the little muskrat came back to the surface in the Anishinaabeg  creation history, and delivered posthumously the little clod of earth, the promise of our survival did not come without a price.  That price was, and always will be, to honor and protect our Earth and all of its resources.  This is not just an inherent right  -  it is equally an inherent duty and obligation.

It is in this spirit, that Makwaweyaan, (aka Betty Chosa Jack), and respectfully in behalf of all Native elders, hereby asks that Saturday, March 11, 2006,  be set aside so that we can journey to the site of this place where Makwa and Makoonsag are now resting, hopefully peacefully, and to conduct ceremonies and feast our Mother Earth for again drawing us together in unity for the good of all mankind.  Tobacco is now being passed to our spiritual people to seek their counsel and participation.

Makwaweyaan invites all to congregate at the Ladysmith MacDonald's parking lot on Hwy 8 at high noon (12:00 PM) on Saturday, March 11, 2006.  We will then journey to where the feast and ceremonies will take place. We will not disturb the sleeping bear and cubs.

If any of you have further suggestions, or can volunteer time, energy, or other resources, please contact  Makwaweyaan ( Betty Jack) , at 715-588-1937, or her cell 715-892-2371, or Mike at 715-588-7557 or Bob Ringstad 715 532 3886.  We welcome and honor your participation and presence. to view pictures of the rally click here

MIIGWETCH (thank you) AND MINOBIMAADIZIIWIN ("the good path of life")