Speaking of ‘Deweguns’, which literally translates into meaning ‘Living Heart’; during this same hour we will be officially launching a joint project “101 Deweguns… A Living Hearts Legacy”, in support of the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF).
Jackie Labonte and Oliver Nobosin are life partners, having shared life together for over 20 years.
Jackie (tekaiatakwas) is self identified from the Turtle Clan of the Mohawk Nation, Six Nations of Grand River Territory. She resides in the Niagara region, having worked with Native organizations for over thirty years providing services, sharing Traditional Teachings and serving as a Cultural Advisor.
Oliver is self identified from Swampy Cree and mixed German/Welsh descent, having lived in the Niagara region all his life. He is an established singer/drummer and drum maker, having facilitated many requests for custom designed Native drums for individuals and groups, both domestic and abroad.
They have established and are currently engaged in expanding a cultural collective known as Kimisken (You found it), which provides culturally based Workshops and Circles.
Drum circle photograph © MarkZelinski.com