By Leslie Knibbs

ESPANOLA – In June of 2022, the new Nagweyaabiin Friendship Centre (NFC) in Espanola was founded by Dalbert Kitchimokman, a member of Whitefish Island First Nation. At present, the Board of Directors includes: Bridget Faries, Vice President living in Sudbury and a Moose Cree First Nation member; Kaitlyn Jones, Treasurer from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation; Kimberly Holderny from Espanola is Secretary; and Tanner Faries is the Youth Representative.

Still in its developmental stages, the Centre has no dedicated office space but is meeting virtually as well as at members’ homes for meetings and planning of events. NFC has organized activities such as drum socials, potluck dinners, and, enriching verbal Indigenous teachings.

On Saturday, Oct. 21, in collaboration with the Indigenous Hockey Equipment Drive, the group held an event with the Espanola Minor Hockey Association in Espanola where they gave away hockey equipment to those who need it for their children and youth but cannot afford to buy it. According to Kitchimokman, they are planning on hosting the giveaway annually. Prior to gathering at the Espanola Recreation Complex for the Hockey Equipment Giveaway, the group hosted another equipment giveaway in Sudbury on the same day.

NFC has submitted grant applications to the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund, Community Investments Grants – Seed, Grow, Capital, Youth Opportunities Fund, and Community Building Fund.

“Any support is invaluable to us. We’re actively seeking additional board members and are always on the lookout for volunteers. With increased assistance, our development will progress more rapidly. Embracing unity is integral to our culture, and our mission is to bridge the divide between Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents in Espanola, especially given the significant flow of Indigenous individuals passing through the area,” said Kitchimokman.

Speaking with board members, it was evident that while the Nagweyaabiin Friendship Centre is in its formative stages, its vision is colossal.

“Our dedication stems from recognizing the challenges faced by Indigenous individuals in urban settings,” mentioned one of the board members. “We aim to provide a sanctuary, a safe space where Indigenous cultures are celebrated, and support is readily accessible.”

The Centre’s path for the future is clear. They aim to offer an expansive range of culturally sensitive services, encompassing areas like health and wellness, education, employment, legal aid, housing, and community engagement, according to Kitchimokman. One striking feature of a conversation with the Board President was when he expressed their drive to “avoid the pitfalls of nepotism and internal oppression that some Indigenous organizations and communities face.”

“We intend to prioritize transparent operations and inclusive decision-making processes. We are not associated with… any other entities. Our goal is to steer clear of nepotism,  lateral violence, and internal oppression prevalent in some native organizations and communities,” said Kitchimokman. “Still, we remain dedicated to offering supportive services and preserving culture. Our hope is that securing OFIFC funding will further empower us in this mission.”

Espanola is a key hub for eight First Nations close by and plays a significant role for the Indigenous population.

“The establishment of the NFC, therefore, is not just noteworthy for the town’s 500+ Indigenous residents, but also vital for the 6,000+ residents from surrounding First Nations communities,” said Kitchimokman recently.

Nagweyaabiin translates to “Rainbow Country” in Ojibwe, the name encapsulates their broader mission of inclusivity and celebration.

“We see ourselves as a rainbow, a merger of various hues, experiences, and stories, coming together to form a cohesive, beautiful whole,” remarked the interim executive director, who has been at the forefront, upholding their duties diligently.

“In the midst of our rapidly changing world, the emergence of institutions like the Nagweyaabiin Friendship Centre offers a glimpse of hope, resilience, and a commitment to preserving and promoting Indigenous values and traditions,” Kitchimokman said.  “We try to do what we can, it’s like walking on water. We just want to give a good message out there.”