The Mamawi Project: Celebrating Together Series
Celebrating – Giniw Graham Paradis
Facebook — @giniwparadis
Where are you from?
Michif/Wiisakodewin from Penetanguishene with roots in Lesser Slave Lake, Alberta. Currently residing as a guest on Anishinaabe akiing southern Ontario.
As a Métis person how do you walk in a way that honours your responsibilities to our nation, other Indigenous communities, the land and waters?
I believe the largest responsibility I have as a Metis person living outside my community is to know who’s land I’m a guest on, and not to overstep myself by asserting government-given rights on another communities/nations land without consent. Living on lands that fall under the Gdo-naaganaa (one dish one spoon) treaty, I understand that if the title holders of these lands allow me to practice any harvesting rights in their territories, my responsibility is to follow the guidelines of the One Dish One Spoon by not taking more than I need for my family and doing my part to ensure these lands continue to feed the generations yet to come.
What medicines do you carry that have helped you on your path?
Asking questions. When you have the patience to ask the right people, the answers and insights you receive are invaluable.
Anything else you would like to add?
I travel a lot going to pow wows across turtle island, been dancing for about 7 years and I sing with Young Tribe.
