JoAnne Michano



JoAnne Michano (Aadsookaanan Gaa-sigsidood Neyaab)



I am so honoured to be part of this project. I cannot express the feelings of gratitude I have for the opportunity to be a part of this beautiful Biigtigong reclamation effort. It fills my heart with such love for our ancestors. I really want to help out in the best way I’m able.
 
I can hear the voice of my great-grandfather, Dan Goodchild, stressing that these stories are not simply tales or fables, but rather they are our most sacred stories, our aadsookaanan. In addition to the work – the gifts – that he and his peers left us, we are very fortunate to have so many community members who grew up hearing these stories.
 
I really hope we can all take time to reflect on our childhood and connect with any memories we have of our stories that originate from our land and from our ancestors. Each of us carries a piece of our past and the opportunity to ensure that our future is grounded in our Nishnaabe way of life. Together, as a community, we are embarking on some very wonderful times, the bringing together of our past, our present, and our future; all resting on our Nishnaabe worldview, philosophy, and ways of relating to the world.