Read by Elder Opolahsomuwehs
Teacher and Wolastoqey speaker Opolahsomuwehs (Imelda Perley) has committed much of her time to teaching language, storytelling and other traditions in Indigenous communities.
Dr. Imelda Perley, C.M. holds a B.A. and M.Ed. both from the University of New Brunswick. She is a professional linguist and Wolastoqey speaker. She taught Wolastoqey language in First Nation schools, public schools and universities. Her roles within Wolastoqey communities expand to include being a Medicine Wheel Teacher, Sweatlodge Keeper, Sacred Pipe Carrier, and Storyteller. She is also a Curriculum and Language Consultant, a part-time lecturer at University of New Brunswick, St. Thomas University, and University of Maine, Presque Isle.
the author
Meet Patricia Bernard, a proud Wolastoqey woman, loving grandmother, and Chief of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation in northern New Brunswick. For over 23 years, Patricia has been dedicated to resolving a significant land claim for her community, showcasing her commitment and leadership.
Before becoming Chief in 2013, Patricia served as a community councillor since 2007. She also worked with the federal government on Indigenous projects, bringing her expertise in education and law to the forefront. Notably, Patricia was the first Wolastoqey woman to graduate with a law degree in New Brunswick, focusing her studies on Aboriginal history and law.
As Chief, Patricia has been instrumental in uniting the Wolastoqey communities in New Brunswick and advocating for Indigenous rights and reconciliation. Her leadership has transformed Madawaska into a model community, with the successful Grey Rock Power Centre providing jobs and economic growth. In recognition of her efforts, her community received the 2018 Indigenous Economic Developer of the Year Award, and Patricia was appointed to the Order of New Brunswick in 2019.
Patricia Bernard continues to inspire young people, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, great achievements for oneself and the community are possible.
the artist
Meet Jasmine Bernard, a 21-year-old Wolastoqiyik woman passionate about rediscovering her roots through art. Jasmine is pursuing a degree in commerce and plans to study illustration. Growing up in Ottawa, Ontario, with her non-Indigenous mother, she often felt disconnected from her community.
Art has always been Jasmine's passion, and she realized that creating pieces about her heritage could help her reconnect. Illustrating children's books has been a significant part of this journey, allowing her to learn about Wolastoqey traditions and showcase the beauty of her culture. This experience has deepened her connection to her heritage and enabled her to share it with others.
Through her illustrations, Jasmine celebrates and preserves her culture, hoping to inspire others to explore and cherish their own cultural roots. Her creative journey is not only a personal rediscovery but also a way to connect and share her heritage with the world.
