Page 31 - Chippewas of Rama First Nation

Elders
We do not refer to Elders as senior citizens; the term Elder refers Sometimes we refer to a
younger person as being an
to more than age. True Elders have lived past the middle stages
Elder, but if that person has
of life and have accepted the responsibility to always carry
not lived past the middle
themselves in a good way. They bring their experience, wisdom, stages of life, then it might be
good hearts, and good spirit to people and issues. They are very better to refer to that person
as being a traditional person
important to our community. We look to them when seeking
or knowledge keeper. In
information and knowledge. Elders are the “wise ones” because
Anishinaabe culture, a person
they have gained wisdom by living life in a spiritual way and are cannot call himself or herself
always prepared to help others. An Elder is someone who knows an Elder unless the community
says the person has earned
traditional knowledge, history, and ceremonies. They live in a
the right.
manner that is often described as being traditional or simple,
and they practise the ceremonies.

Elders usually claim that they are not knowledgeable, but when
we ask them a question about something, they share a story.
We have to listen carefully to understand the points of their
stories. Elders say young people often don’t know how to listen
anymore. Elders are often asked to sit as a “Council of Elders”
who are listened to, and who observe how the affairs of a
community or organization are being conducted. Elders are able
to scold without fear. They scold in a quiet way and are careful
not to hurt anyone’s feelings.

Chippewas of Rama First Nation 29

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