Picture courtesy of jes'n penwa Lodge will help give Mikmaq community it's own identityLETTER TO THE EDITORDear Editor: With the rebirth of the Mi'kmaq people here on the west coast, it does my heart good when I see our people coming forward and are proud of who they are. Most people here in Stephenville are wondering and asking questions about the work being done on the former White's Hotel, by a lot of the aboriginal people giving it a compete change over, along with a new identity. This time it will be called "The Dream Catcher Lodge", the first facility with a real aboriginal name and today I am sure that this will be the start of giving this community it's rightful identity as a Mi'kmaq Community. Tourists coming into this area shows a lot of interest into the crafts or anything related to the aboriginal people way of life. With a lodge being opened here I am sure that this business will prosper and draw many tourists to this area. Time will tell. We as aboriginal people need to take hold of our roots, bring our culture alive and never be ashamed of who we are (Mi'kmaq meaning my kind friend) that should be understood by all. Most people know me, my heart goes out to our people and the struggle we are having to survive. We have to search for ways to bring small business to this area, that will attract tourism, that will benefit us all. Frank Russell, Port au Port East Source: The Western Star, November 17, 2003 |
