Staff Writer
HOULTON — The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians held their 27th annual Recognition Day on Sept. 15 as a way for everyone to come together and celebrate traditions and milestones of the Houlton band.
Photo by Fox Hollow Photography & Design
DANCERS — Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians dancers from left Suzanne Greenlaw, Rhonda Ireland, Ursula Greenlaw and Danya Boyce.
Recognition Day has been traditionally celebrated in October, which was the month that life changed for the HBMI members. On Oct. 10, 1980, lawmakers finally recognized them to be a legitimate band, which paved the way for various funding programs and possibilities. This event was the starting point of a brighter future for the HBMI and it is the reason why they celebrate it each year.
Part of the festivities included drumming, dancing and smudging. Among the drummers scheduled to perform on Saturday were the “Four Winds,” an all-women drumming group. Another highlight of the day was the Grand Entry where the tribal chief, council and elders form a procession.
“The theme was different this year,” remarked Dana Boyce, coordinator and tribal elder for the HBMI. “We had it set along the lines of protecting mother Earth because of what is going on in the world today with global warming.”
Boyce said approximately 503 people attended the event compared to last year’s 480. Boyce said despite the wet weather, everyone enjoyed the festivities throughout the day.
Chief Brenda Commander has been active within tribal government since its recognition and has continued to help the band grow, both spiritually and economically.
Photo by Fox Hollow Photography & Design
KEEPING THE FLAME — Fire Keeper George Labrador.
Photo by Fox Hollow Photography & Design
DRUMMERS — Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians’ Women’s Drum Group — Four Winds (Newonol Wocawsonol). Clockwise from center are Dawn Marie Sacobie, Leona Joseph, Danya Boyce, Amy Dennis, Sally Joseph and Rhonda Ireland.
Photo by Fox Hollow Photography & Design
PERFORMERS — These musicians performed with Allen Sockabasin during the Sept. 15 event held by the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians.
