Sadness visits Wemindji:
I've just returned from the funeral of a young Cree teenage girl (Angela) who died last Wednesday. It was deeply sad and moving to see the out-pouring of family and friends. I realize that the passing of a young person usually generates a big response but I've never seen so many relatives. The families are large here and quite close. Impact was far and wide.
The funeral service was held in the little Anglican church this morning after an open casket viewing that generated deep and painful sobbing by visitors. Although I didn't know this young person, I was brought to tears just witnessing the grief. Words were spoken in Cree and English. Familiar hymns and songs such as "Amazing Grace" were sung in both languages.
Tender messages and stories were read by two aunts in both languages for all to hear. No one was an outsider today. No barriers existed, we all felt the family's loss deeply.
It was much more poignant hearing familiar hymns that I grew up hearing sung to Cree words. We could sing along as they were printed out for us phonetically. I joined in the singing until I was overcome with emotion. The minister and his minister wife did an excellent job reaching out to the congregation about the importance of speaking about pain and anxiety instead of hiding those sometimes destructive feelings. Angela died due to a momentary lapse in judgement and the feelings of hopelessness that affect many young people both here and all over the world. She didn't reach out at that moment but it seems many were ready to help her if she'd done so.
One wonders how this event will impact the families of Wemindji. Work is being done to educate people about healthy coping strategies to fight the prevalent dependence on alcohol. Today's tragedy demonstrates the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. Wemindji struggles with many of the same issues that more populated, modern, urban communities struggle with. Too much change, too much stuff and the abandonment of traditions that taught resilience. Changes have been forced on many cultures historically but perhaps none so fast as those facing Natives.
I was touched today by the expression of affection and warmth shared by the community. The bonds are very strong here. The women are the glue in the families. However, the men folk turned out in great numbers and their grief was without restraint.
Had to share this experience with you all.
It is very sad to hear that this is almost common now. My condolences to the family and friends.
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