Nation-20-11

Clarissa Cookish, Ancita Mae Allain, Edward Cookish from Chisasibi
Ancita Mae Allain, Chisasibi
We are standing here looking, observing and being part
of history. My oldest son Alex Etapp who is 23 years old
joined from Eastmain. He's been walking ever since. He
misses walking in the bush though. It's emotional, heart
jerking it's amazing. Even before he joined i was crying
everyday just seeing the pictures of the walkers arriving
and leaving. It's amazing, invigorating i get excited. I
believe each walker is on their own journey within this
journey. Each of them have reasons to walk. I believe
my sons journey is about freedom and reliving the
experiences of his ancestors… all that comes to mind is
freedom.
On the support bus
Candace Sheshamush, Whapmagoostui
We came down from North Bay, where I go to school. I wanted to show my support. I’m really proud of the youth who
started this journey – that’s where I’m from, so I feel very proud and emotional to be here today.
It’s a small community, so I know all of [the original seven]. I find them very courageous to be doing this. A lot of people
doubted them, but now they’re here, and it’s really unbelievable.
I hope there’s more awareness of the issues, and I hope that people won’t turn away from the issues that need to be
resolved for this generation and for future generations. I hope that they will have a better chance of having a good future.
I think the walk will change them in a positive way. I find that they’ve changed so much, emotionally, spiritually and mentally.
I’ve been following their web pages and I see the proof of it there.
www.nationnews.ca April 5, 2013 the Nation 13