Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Elders have a huge role to play in our education systems of today. They remind youth what wisdom is and what real education means. Their presence in schools, though too rare, brings stability and assurance to our young people that are currently wanting. Let’s work to ensure that our elders are able to fulfill their key role in every one of our educational facilities.
Today I especially want to salute the woman who is the traditional heart and soul of K’alemi Dene School in Ndilo, Mary Jane Francois, who the children call Mrs. Fwasi.
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Mrs. Fwasi is the school elder. On joining the K’alemi Dene family 10 years ago, Mrs. Fwasi introduced herself and her Weledeh dialect, and the children heard “Francois” as “Fwasi.” Teachers thought this was a pretty good example of how people learn language and the name stuck. Mrs. Fwasi likes it because it has such a nice rhyme with mahsi.
Mrs. Fwasi instructs the children in the Weledeh dialect and advises teachers on words and expressions as they relate to the daily lessons. Students learn the Yellowknives Dene First Nations history, its landmarks, traditions and culture at Mrs. Fwasi’s knee. Mrs. Fwasi’s lessons come from her stories and memories and straight from the heart. Visit K’alemi Dene and you are instantly greeted by the beauty and accomplishment of Mrs. Fwasi’s presence. Her newly completed full moosehide beadwork tapestry is on proud display in the new school’s foyer and was an experience of creation shared by all the students.
Mrs. Fwasi is now working on a huge baby blanket with traditional beadwork on white stroud. This masterpiece will be displayed above the school’s vision and mission statements.
Mary Jane Fwasi will celebrate her 70th birthday June 1st. Teachers and students are planning a huge celebration to thank their spiritual grandmother of all these years. In the words of K’alemi Dene principal Angela James, “we love our Mrs. Fwasi and are blessed to have her sharing her language, traditions and culture with the students and staff of K’alemi Dene School.”
Mr. Speaker and all colleagues, please join me in saying, Mrs. Fwasi, mahsi.
Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Bromley. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe, Mr. Beaulieu.
