Cree relations
Natimachew Siwin means “helping each other” in Cree. It’s also the name of a partnership initiative between the Niskamoon Corporation and Société d’énergie de la Baie James. The two companies have decided to work together for four years to organize coaching activities as part of the Rupert diversion project. It is the first initiative of its kind. The activities of Natimachew Siwin will involve all the workcamps—Eastmain, Nemiscau, Rupert and, soon, Sarcelle.
Activities will begin this spring at Rupert workcamp. They will progressively be expanded to the other workcamps. Natimachew Siwin will shortly be hiring two Cree coordinators who will be responsible for initiating the construction of traditional buildings, known as “sabtuans”, where most of the activities will be held. In 2009, another coordinator will be joining the team. The program also includes “mokoshans” where traditional food will be prepared. This component is intended to promote both our cultures through intercultural activities such as traditional Cree meals prepared with the help of elders, who will have the opportunity to show their age-old knowledge, or typical Québec meals prepared in the “sabtuan”. Participants will alternate between being hosts and guests. Recreational activities will also be part of the “mokoshans”. At the Niskamoon Corporation’s request, French classes will be available for Cree workcamp residents as part of Natimachew Siwin.
In Loving Memory of
Walter July Robertson Gunner 13, 1963–May 1, 2007 On Tuesday, May 1, 2007 around 8 a.m., there was a lot of activity going on in Heaven. God was smiling, more than usual, and was eagerly awaiting a very special soul. He turned to one of His most trusted angels and with joy said, «It’s time. Bring him home.» All of the angels, except a little one, ran with haste to prepare a magnificent homecoming. In a few weeks, it’s going to be 1 year since he has left this world to be with our Heavenly Father. It hasn’t been very easy, especially when we hear his song, when we have his favorite meal. We still often wonder… What were you thinking, did you know the end was in sight? Did God come to you and say it was your time? And there you stood at the pearly gates in line, looking down at us all in tears, and you wanted to come and calm all our fears, for now you’re in a place so beautiful, so clean, a place where God can be seen, we never thought this would happen in a million years. Dear friends, family & co-workers,
In addition, wellness activities (talking circles, sweat tents, health walks) and workshops on various themes will be organized during the four years we will be living side by side. Finally, elders and speakers will occasionally share their life experiences, their successes and their know-how.
We want to express our sincere gratitude for the thoughtful gifts you sent. The flowers truly brighten the room and lift our moods. We know Walter would appreciate your kind gestures. He spoke often of his friendships with his many co-workers; we know you all meant a great deal to him. Many of you expressed such beautiful sentiments that we have no trouble seeing why Walter enjoyed his work so much. Being surrounded by people like you was a large part of why Walter liked to go to work each day.
Meegwetsh!
Thank you all so much for your kind words, your generous gifts, and most of all, for your friendship with Walter. Knowing you will miss him too makes our burdens a bit easier to bear.
Nii George P. Bordeleau Section Manager - Cree Relations Rupert workcamp
From: Margaret B. Gunner, Children and Grand Children
Eastmain Magazine May 2008 13