Protectors of the Menominee River, opponents of proposed Back 40 sulfide mine, complete 6th Annual Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey

By Michele Bourdieu

Participants in the 6th annual Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey set out on July 4, 2024, the first day of the four-day trip on the Menominee River -- a trip to call for protection of the river and its historic and cultural sites from the Back 40 gold mining project, whose proposed location is next to the river and sacred Menominee sites. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

MENOMINEE RIVER, Mich. and Wis. -- Since 2019 a group of concerned members of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin and their supporters have paddled 48 miles down the Menominee River -- a four-day trip from an area near its banks where sacred Menominee burial grounds and pre-historic gardens, as well as the river, are threatened by the proposed Back 40 sulfide mine for gold, copper and other metals.

This photo shows a burial mound (circled in red) near the July 4 launch site for the Canoe Journey. It is also near the site proposed for the Back 40 mine, near the Menominee River. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Keweenaw Now has published several articles on these canoe trips with the help of Internet communications, but this year we had the opportunity to attend the event in person for the first day. Thanks to a double kayak borrowed from Dean Juntunen of Mass City, we enjoyed paddling along with the participants and experiencing the peaceful beauty of the Menominee River.

Early on the morning of July 4, 2024, paddlers prepare to launch canoes and kayaks at a peaceful spot on the Michigan side of the Menominee River, prepared for a full 12-mile day on the river, which forms a border between Michigan and Wisconsin. (Photo by Keweenaw Now) 

Participants in the 2024 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Trip paddle down the Menominee River during the first day of a four-day trip. Supporters are welcome to join the group at any stage of the trip. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Co-organizers of the canoe trip, since its beginnings, are Menominee tribal members Wayne Swett and Dawn Wilber, who spoke with Keweenaw Now about the purpose of the trip and its growth during the past six years.

Wayne Swett, co-organizer of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey for the past six years, speaks about the growth and success of the annual event and its role in the opposition to the proposed Back 40 mining project. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Dawn Wilber, co-organizer of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Trip, speaks with Keweenaw Now on its beginnings and its dual purpose. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Here is how Dawn described on Facebook Day 1 of this year's trip: "Our first day of our 4-Day Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. We have some old friends and some new friends joining us. Today we saw 21 eagles, 2 eagle nests, 3 sturgeon and 2 deer; it is always so amazing to see our relatives on this beautiful river! Water was higher than usual and we were able to take on an additional run today because of it. Somewhere where we haven’t been able to go until today. It was an amazing day with slightly cloudy skies and not too hot."

Dawn Wilber, co-organizer of the canoe trip, shared a canoe with her grand-niece Bella, an excellent paddler and swimmer. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

While the high water level prevented stopping on a familiar sand bar, the group still found a spot on the river suitable for cooling off. Actual swimming in the current of the river was risky, however, as Keweenaw Now's editor discovered. Thanks to help from alert swimmer Bella, she quickly made it to shore!

Paddlers cool off during a "swim stop" on Day 1 of the Canoe Trip. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Thanks to chief chef Ann Marie Oshkosh, Dawn's sister, a copious lunch was prepared each day for the hungry paddlers:

Lunch on the river included make-your-own sandwiches and plenty of choices, even some traditional buffalo jerky, venison jerky, salmon and fresh fruits and veggies. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

One faithful supporter of the Menominee Canoe Trip since its beginning is Tina Lesperance, a member of the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River and a good friend of Menominee tribal members. Tina has often assisted with the canoe trip, but this year was the first time she was able to paddle down the river and she did all four days, sharing a canoe with co-organizer Wayne Swett.

Tina Lesperance and Wayne Swett are pictured here in their canoe during the first day of the 2024 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Just before setting out on the second day, July 5, Tina spoke with Keweenaw Now about her experience and the reason for her participation:

Tina Lesperance, who has been involved with the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey since its beginnings six years ago, speaks with Keweenaw Now about her first day joining in a canoe. Tina paddled all four days with co-organizer Wayne Swett. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

After completing the entire 48-mile trip, Tina shared her reactions to paddling the whole way:

"I was fortunate enough to join my Menominee Tribe friends on their 6th annual canoe trip down the Menominee River," Tina writes. "I only planned on doing the first day and part of the last day but I decided to do the entire journey. There was so much comaraderie and fun on this trip! On the trip we saw so many eagles and sturgeon among other wild creatures. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking! The trip enforced my belief and conviction that we must do everything in our power to protect the Menominee River and our environment from metallic sulfide mining like the Back Forty Project proposes!"

Tina Lesperance and Wayne Swett shared a canoe for this year's Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Spencer Gauthier, Menominee tribal member and Menominee Tribal Legislature secretary, and his wife, Dorothy, also joined the canoe trip. Here Spencer tells Keweenaw Now why he participated:

Spencer Gauthier, Menominee tribal member and legislator whose father fought the Crandon Mine in Wisconsin, tells Keweenaw Now why he decided to join the 2024 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Wayne Swett was happy to help Spencer connect with his ancestors during Day 1 of the trip.

"History was made as we stopped at the Oxbow, the site of the 1st Menominee council meeting," Wayne wrote in his Facebook comments on Day 1. "It was a powerful moment as he stood up there on the bank of the Oxbow. Way to go, Spencer, proud of ya!"

During a stop at the Oxbow on the Menominee River, Spencer Gauthier, Menominee tribal legislator, takes a few moments to connect with his ancestors who attended the first Menominee council meeting, held there. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Two friends who shared a canoe during the trip, Regina Chaltry and Christine Fossen-Rades, also spoke with Keweenaw Now after Day 1 of the trip.

Regina Chaltry, who lives near the Menominee River, speaks with Keweenaw Now about her participation in the Menominee Canoe Journey as well as her opposition to the Back 40 mine proposal. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Following her first day participating in the 2024 Menominee Canoe Trip on the Menominee River, Christine Fossen-Rades, who teaches science and culture at Menominee High School, explains how she combines science with culture, noting the Menominee elders are scientists. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Some rainy weather on Day 2, July 5, challenged the paddlers.

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Participants in the Canoe Trip on Day 2 donned rain gear and faced a faster river. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

"Threats of storms so we got out early and got in early but we made our mark! Now the sun is shining. So proud of everyone. We didn’t let the rain hold us back," wrote Dawn on Facebook. "Not as many eagles today but the ones we saw were amazing. Also seeing the large mouth bass jumping out of the water in front of us is always awesome to see! Shout out to River Alliance for your Support in our Journey, it is so much appreciated!! Sinny and I made sure to wear our new shirts today! Wāēwāēnen from all us River Rats!"

Dawn and her sister, Ann Marie Oshkosh, chief chef, wear their River Alliance of Wisconsin t-shirts at camp the morning of Day 2. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

One of the eagles spotted on Day 2. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

Wayne reported via Facebook on Day 2 that Jeff Lindbom, who lives on the river, joined the group upstream from his house, accompanied by his paddle buddy, Walter.

"We escorted him to his house," Wayne writes. "After dropping him off we decided to skip the sandbar we usually stop at due to high water and paddled to our next stop at Kelly Anderson's house. Waewaenon Kelly for letting us park our canoes overnight! That segment took 4 hrs to complete."

Saturday, July 6, Day 3, was a special day, Dawn noted with a video of the twin islands Rora and Bella, named for her twin great nieces who joined her on the trip this year.

With Bella paddling, Dawn captured this lovely river scene near the island called Bella. (Video © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

"We were all in complete awe of the whole scenery back there," Dawn said. "I have no words to explain the feeling we all had because it was beyond absolute beauty. With the water being a little higher this year, we were able to explore a little more river. This river never ceases to amaze me."

Dawn also listed the "relatives" observed on Day 3: 12 eagles, 4 Eagles' nests, 3 green heron, 1 crane, 3 baby martens, 3 sturgeon, a few fish jumping, and a bunch of turtles she couldn't count.

Wayne reported the progress on Day 3, including the visit with supporter Sally Draze and her husband, Ed, who live on the river: "Arrived at our 1st portage and put in at the McAllister bridge enroute to our next stop over at Sally Draze house! Along the way we ran into Jody K., a friend, and briefly visited. Checked on 2 eagle nests on the Twin islands. As we arrived at Sal's she was standing on the river bank waiting for us! Canoes were tied down for the night and it was time for a meet and greet around the firepit as supporters had come to visit."

On Day 3, the canoes and kayaks are portaged because of a large dam in the river. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Sally Draze told Keweenaw Now about the visit to her home.

 "We all sat around in a circle around a campfire pit to sit and visit while I served refreshments. I invited some friends to meet them. I asked the folks that were in the journey to introduce themselves. Ann Marie Oshkosh, speaking in her native language, asked them to share a little of their story too. They focused on the significance of protecting the river. I personally was so impressed how the teacher (Christine) shared how her students have written numerous letters to the legislatures in defense for the river. It was a humbling educational sharing from everyone. I am proud to call them my friends." Inset photo: Sally Draze. (Photo courtesy Sally Draze)

On Day 3, July 6, paddlers visit with Sally Draze and friends at her home on the river. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Two of Sally's visiting friends also sent Sally these comments on the experience:

Ann Holmquist said, "Sally, the only thing that comes to my mind is the quote from the female leader how important it is for our future generations to know and share the stories that she shares."

Michele Holdorf told Sally the young participants impressed her most: "Yes! The attendance of the younger folks (teenagers and very young adults). Their interest in the event, their absolute respect for all elders, and their interest in preserving their culture and the environment made the biggest impression on me."

Two of those Menominee young people, who have now paddled the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey twice, the first time in 2022, are Cedar Fernandez and Jeremiah Moses Jr.

Cedar Fernandez and Jeremiah Moses Jr. are pictured here during the 2024 Menominee Canoe Journey. Bella is in the background. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Cedar's name in Menominee is Waqsepāēkacīwen (sparkling, flowing water).

"I am a Water Protector of the Menominee River," Cedar says. "Each journey has been healing and eye opening for me as we paddled on the Menominee River, our ancestral place of origin as Menominee people. Canoeing on this river means so much to us, not only as Menominee people but for protecting this bringer of life for everyone (human and non-human) around the great lakes. Protecting the Menominee River from the metallic sulfide Back Forty Mine is protecting the lives in Wisconsin, our homelands, and our ancestral connections with grandmother earth. When you join us on the Menominee River you stand up for the water and use your strength to support this water -- this life -- that has continually supported us all."

Cedar will be studying early childhood education this fall at the College of Menominee Nation.

Jeremiah Moses Jr., who attends the College of Menominee Nation, is studying sustainability. He has also been studying the Menominee language. Here he speaks with Keweenaw Now about his interests:

During the first day of the 2024 Menominee Canoe Trip, Jeremiah Moses Jr., a student at College of Menominee Nation and a Menominee Tribal member, introduces himself in the Menominee language and tells Keweenaw Now about his sustainability studies at the college. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

After completing the entire four-day trip, Jeremiah sent this comment to Keweenaw Now: "We canoe to watch over the water but there’s many reasons we do it. When I’m canoeing on the Menominee River, I feel our ancestors. I feel as they push my canoe for me when I get too tired. I feel them watching over us on that river. I feel their smiles because we are bringing our ways of being into each new day. I feel their lives in the ripples and their breath in the wind. Our ancestors love us, the land loves us, and the water loves us, and I love them too."

Two kayakers from one family who paddled the 4-day trip were Laureen Kaprelian and her son, Thomas Duncanson of Wallace, Michigan.

Laureen Kaprelian and her son, Thomas Duncanson, are seen here paddling their kayaks during the 4-day Menominee on the Menominee Journey. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

"My son and I took this trip to spend time together kayaking and camping after hearing from a friend of their mission to bring awareness that we need to save the river from mining and its detrimental effects," Laureen told Keweenaw Now. "We learned the importance of the Menominee River not only to the area's indigenous people, but to us, the wildlife and the environment. We learned about culture and thousands of years of history of great people who lived here and on our river -- people who believed if you take great care and respect of all that was created, you in turn will receive more from it. We learned that there is much more to the saying 'water is life,' that it has been taken for granted as most things have (with) repercussions that are not good. We are humbled and privileged to have been a part of this trip of great learning and beauty, and we are grateful and honored to have these new friends in our life. We will continue to help them with their mission by joining them again next year and in any way we can to Save the Menominee. Water is Life. Wāēwāēnen (thank you) to our Menominee friends."

Thomas Duncanson paddles his kayak, displaying a Menominee tribal flag, during the 2024 Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Laureen added that her son, Thomas, said this trip was better than any one he has ever taken, even the ones her mom paid lots of money for! He said he admired the young men tending the fire with the fire keeper Dave as they worked harder than any boys he's seen. That they had so much respect for their elders and wished the kids off the reservation were taught that also. He also said something Laureen will never forget -- that he saw the young men were "not just strong in body but in heart and mind."

Thomas was talking about Joe Moses and Ronnie Dickie, who worked at the camp site, helped load and transport the canoes and kayaks, and more.

Joe Moses, right, and Ronnie Dickie are pictured here in front of the tent they set up for meals at the camp site on the property of Tom Boerner, a strong supporter of the Menominee and opponent of the Back 40 mining project. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Dave Oshkosh, the fire keeper, who keeps the sacred fire going during the entire length of the 4-day canoe journey, is pictured here at the camp. Joe and Ronnie assist him in keeping the fire going all night, and he praised their abilities and dedication. "I feel more comfortable when they're with me," Dave said. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Dave's wife, Ann Marie Oshkosh, also worked tirelessly to produce meals for the large group at camp as well as lunches on the river. This year her traditional food specialties included wild rice, venison, elk, buffalo, moose and fish.

Ann Marie's wild rice with berries salad specialty. (Photo courtesy Wayne Swett)

Dawn Wilber posted this photo of the entire crew at camp: Sitting, l-r: Dave Oshkosh and Ann Marie Oshkosh husband and wife tandem. "Dave was our Pōtawāētemīw (Firekeeper) and Ann was our kāēqc-cēpāhkow (amazing chef).
Standing, l-r: Joe "Goat" Moses and Ronnie Dickie were our nātamowekowak (helpers). What an amazing addition they are to our Canoe Journey. They sure make a huge difference in our lives on the river!" Dawn writes. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Wayne recounts on Facebook the challenges for paddlers on Day 4, July 7: "Took a group pic at Camp Riff Raff before heading back to Sal's for our final day on the Menominee river. Today in my opinion is the hardest day bcuz as we get towards the end the wind and boat traffic are heavy. You are paddling against the wind blowing off of the bay. We also have our last portage. After Tina and I paddled under the trestle I told her that we have yards to go and not miles. Arms are burning at this point."

Participants in the Menominee Canoe Journey pause for a group photo before heading for the Bear at Menekaunee Harbor -- their final destination on Day 4, July 7. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Thanks to Ann Holmquist of Marinette, Wis., for sharing the following views of paddlers heading for the Harbor:

Paddlers complete the 2024 Menominee Canoe Journey with their arrival at Menekaunee Harbor, Marinette, Wis., on July 7. (Video © and courtesy Ann Holmquist)

Cedar Fernandez and Jeremiah Moses paddle toward shore for their arrival on Day 4. (Photo © and courtesy Ann Holmquist)

Canoe partners Regina Chaltry and Christine Fossen-Rades paddle toward their completion of the 4-day Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo © and courtesy Ann Holmquist)

Wayne posted on Facebook his final thoughts on this trip: "The End! 48 miles later we reach the Menominee Bear at Menekaunee Harbor. We load up, take group pic and hugs all around! Water Protectors do it again! Every year we have new (friends) show up. I hope they enjoyed the trip. The rain was a test from the Creator and his messenger was watching. If you haven't been on this trip I hope to see you next year. Once you're on the Menominee river, you're hooked! Waewaenon! And No Back 40 Mine!"

Participants in the 2024 Menominee Canoe Journey are welcomed by supporters on the shore as they arrive at Menekaunee Harbor. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Dawn reported seeing eagles, a heron, a crane and a snake on Day 4.

"Wāēwāēnen for Another Great Year!" Dawn wrote on Facebook. "Six years in and many Many more to go!"

At the end of the 2024 Menominee Canoe Journey on July 7, paddlers and crew pause for their traditional photo with the statue of their ancestral Bear. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

Editor's Notes:

Keweenaw Now extends thanks -- Wāēwāēnen -- to the Menominee Canoe Journey participants who contributed photos, videos and comments to this article and to John Peiffer for paddling the double kayak that made it possible for this editor to join the journey in person this year.

Here we are on Day 1. Hope to do 4 days next year! (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

And here is a song, "Words Fail," written by John Peiffer and inspired by this Menominee River Journey:

John Peiffer performs "Words Fail" during the 2024 Aura Jamboree. (Video courtesy John Peiffer)

UPDATED: People of the Heart Water Walkers create awareness of Water with second annual 3-day walk near Lake Superior; some honor Water near home during pandemic

By Michele Bourdieu

People of the Heart Water Walkers arrive at their destination, the Lighthouse overlook at Copper Harbor, on Oct. 12, 2020, Indigenous Peoples' Day. (Photo © and courtesy Steve Brimm Photography)

Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) has participated in 10 Water Walks and has been the organizer or co-organizer of eight of them, including this year's Second Annual People of the Heart Water Walk -- which began in Baraga on Oct. 10 and concluded in Copper Harbor on Oct. 12, Indigenous Peoples' Day.

View of Keweenaw Bay, Lake Superior, from the start of the 2020 Water Walk near Baraga, Michigan. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie) 

"On Feb. 22, 2019, I was at the Three Fires Midewiwin Lodge with my Lodge Family when we got the news of Grandma Josephine’s passing," Denomie said. "I knew that day why I was where I was at! I made a promise to myself and Nibi* that I continue our work that Grandma Josephine started!"

In the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture, women are the protectors of Nibi, the Water. Denomie said she was at the Lodge in 2000 when the Grand Chief warned, "Water will cost as much as gold" in 30 years -- 2030, ten years from now.

"I believe 30 years from now Water will be worth MORE than GOLD!" Denomie said. "I believe if EVERYONE did one thing to help take care our Nibi -- like take your own trash from the Lake, or better yet, pick up what you can even if it isn’t yours --that would make a HUGE difference!"

This year the organizers of the local 90-mile Water Walk faced the challenge of COVID-19. They decided to limit the number of walkers to a small, core group in order to keep to distancing as much as possible but invited supporters to participate in various ways. Some contributed their time and efforts to planning the event, donating food and vehicles, taking photos or offering overnight accommodations. Others participated in spirit by having their own personal water walk or other type of communication with Nibi.

"Bringing awareness to Nibi is what it is all about!" Denomie noted. "Putting my asemaa (sacred tobacco) down and asking Creator to help is what I do! Respecting Her, keeping Her in my daily thoughts and prayers and thanking Her every darn day for that glass of water I start each day with -- brushing my teeth, showering, cooking, cleaning, washing my clothes, and watering new Life, whether it be plants, animals, or humans, WATER IS LIFE!"

Lisa Denomie of KBIC carries Nibi along Keweenaw Bay on US-41 near Arnheim, Michigan, on Oct. 10, 2020, the first day of the People of the Heart Water Walk. Protector Mike Rodriguez carries the Eagle Staff. (Photo courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie) 

This year the People of the Heart Water Walk began with a water ceremony at dawn on Oct. 10, at the Sand Point Lighthouse on Keweenaw Bay in Baraga, and followed the route of the 2019 Water Walk, but in reverse order, since last year it began in Copper Harbor and ended in Baraga.**

For the participants who spent the night of Oct. 9 at the Sand Point Campground the preparations included a box dinner of venison chili and black bean chili that evening, thanks to cook chiefs Emily Shaw and Rachael Pressley, who also delivered breakfast items early the next morning for the walkers.

Denomie, foreground, is joined by the Serene Smith family near Keweenaw Bay on Oct. 10, the first day of the Water Walk. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)

Co-organizer Kathleen Smith of KBIC, who drove a van this year in support of the walkers, expressed her appreciation for all the community members who participated in bringing awareness to the Water.

"As we do this work for our precious Nibi, that beautiful life giving resource, we are beginning the healing process through community awareness and by bringing all people together," Smith commented. "As we bring awareness to Nibi through prayer and songs, we  plant seeds in our communities. With much support through the Indigenous Peoples' Day Campaign in celebration of all indigenous nations, MTU has joined our effort. Miigwechiwendem to all that supported the People of the Heart Water Walk and the people that were with us in spirit. With their thoughts and prayers it made our hearts full. I am humbled by the support of the people that stopped to acknowledge us on our three-day journey. Miigwechiwendem to all who walked with us."

Smith was in Houghton early on the morning of Oct. 11 to do a water ceremony on the Keweenaw Waterway at Bridgeview Park and to do ceremonial smudging of walkers as they prepared to cross the Portage Lift Bridge, heading north.

At Bridgeview Park in Houghton, Kathleen Smith, right, smudges water walkers (a purification tradition) as they prepare to begin Day 2 of the Water Walk, Oct. 11, by crossing the Portage Lift Bridge. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Here the small group of walkers -- led by Denomie, carrying Nibi in a copper pail, and Jacob, Kathleen Smith's son, carrying the Eagle Staff as protector -- head up to Shelden Avenue on their way to the Lift Bridge:

At dawn on Oct. 11, 2020, heading toward the Portage Lift Bridge, People of the Heart water walkers begin the second day of their three-day walk from Baraga to Copper Harbor. Other participants will join them later in the day for their walk near the Keweenaw Waterway and Lake Superior. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Donica Hope Dravillas of Copper Harbor participated in both of the People of the Heart Water Walks.

"Now more than ever we need to advocate for our precious waters," Dravillas said. "I live surrounded by water and amongst amazing strong men and women who have mutual understanding of this concept. It is an honor to learn from Anishinaabekwe Terri Denomie and Kathleen Smith (we cannot do this without them) while we walk Nibi between these two communities. Every Water Walk I have experienced is different (never the same) and always powerful!"

 

On Oct. 11, after crossing the Portage Lift Bridge, Water Walkers head for Lake Linden. Here the Rev. Julie Belew, pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Baraga, carries Nibi; and Mike Rodriguez is the protector carrying the Eagle Staff. (Photo © and courtesy Donica Dravillas)

 

KBIC member Theresa Pitts joined the Water Walk near her home in Hubbell.

 

Theresa Pitts of Hubbell, carrying the Eagle Staff, joins Donica Dravillas, who carries Nibi, on the sunny Day 2 of the Water Walk. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)

"This was my first year to participate in the Water Walk," Pitts told Keweenaw Now. "Primarily, I worked behind the scenes with administrative tasks, but I was able to carry Nibi through my hometown of Hubbell. Torch Lake has long been working to recover from the damages of mining pollution, and I felt like I was able to further promote its healing. It meant a lot to me."

The Rev. Julie Belew continues carrying Nibi in Calumet. Here she is accompanied by her husband, the Rev. Bucky Beach, carrying the Eagle Staff. The couple also welcomed walkers to their home. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)

The Rev. Bucky Beach, pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Houghton, as he had done last year, welcomed the walkers to his church. He also participated in the walk this year by carrying the Eagle Staff as a protector.

Commenting on this year's walk, Beach said he was reminded of a wonderful piece about Rabbi Abraham Heschel and Martin Luther King Jr: "When Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel was asked upon his return from the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights march with Dr. Martin Luther King, 'Did you find time to pray?' he famously answered, 'I prayed with my feet.'"

Beach added, "We walked for the water. We walked for our whole community and earth. It was an honor to walk, pray and be together."

Mothers and daughters walk together

Florine Chosa (one of the Core Walkers in People of the Heart Water Walk), Anishinaabe Nokomis from KBIC and mother of Kathleen Smith, carries Nibi through the Laurium community Sunday afternoon, Oct. 11. Mike Rodriguez carries the Eagle Staff. "Florine has been doing this work for many years and continues to advocate for our water," Smith said. (Photo © and courtesy Kathleen Smith)

 

Nokomis from KBIC, Barbara Jean Swartz and her daughter, Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie, carry Nibi and the Eagle Staff on the walk along US 41 Sunday evening, Oct. 11. (Photo © and courtesy Lauri Denomie of KBIC Newsletter. Reprinted with permission.)

On a rainy Oct. 12 in Copper Harbor, Donica Dravillas is joined by her daughter, Maddie, who carries the Eagle Staff during the final leg of the Water Walk. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)
 

Cynthia Drake of Ripley, who participated in the 2019 Water Walk, decided to do a personal spiritual journey this year with the water during the weekend of the People of the Heart Water Walk. Cynthia's daughters accompanied her on a walk near Lake Superior at McLain State Park, where she made a cairn on the beach -- a Gaelic tradition signifying respect.

 

Accompanied by her daughters, Cynthia Drake built this cairn on the beach at McLain State Park. (Photo © and courtesy Cynthia Drake)

Cynthia Drake, right, is pictured here with her daughters, Samantha, left, and Danielle -- who accompanied her to McLain State Park Friday, Oct. 9, to begin her spiritual journey with the water near Lake Superior. (Photo © and courtesy Cynthia Drake)
 

"I have some Celtic roots and it felt right at that moment to build a cairn," Drake told Keweenaw Now. "This whole journey for me with the water has been about ancestors and community. It is about how water draws the life through us all and connects us all in vital ways through time and through our relatedness with one another. Water is life."

 

Ripley Falls, behind the home of Cynthia Drake, was the scene of a mudslide that caused severe damage to her home during the Father's Day flood of 2018. Drake said she considers herself a guardian of the Falls. (Photo © and courtesy Cynthia Drake)
 

"It was a very personal journey," Drake said of her weekend spent with her daughters near the Falls at home and Lake Superior as well. "I'm connected to the waterway back here intimately. I was since well before the mudslide, and the mudslide just reinforced that for me -- that connection and me staying here because I talk to the water all the time."

Water Walkers undaunted by rain on Indigenous Peoples' Day

On Day 3 -- Monday, Oct. 12 -- Water Walkers set out early from Eagle River heading up M-203 near Lake Superior toward their destination, Copper Harbor.

Ronnie Mae Krueger of Copper Harbor carries Nibi, and Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie, carrying the Eagle Staff, walks with her in Eagle River. On Oct. 11 Krueger posted on Facebook, "I am honored and blessed to be called a Water Walker and to be walking with these wonderful people!" (Photo © and courtesy Donica Hope Dravillas)

Heading up M-203 from Eagle River on Monday morning, Oct. 12, are Donica Dravillas, center, carrying Nibi, Mike Rodriguez carrying the Eagle Staff, and Erika Vye of Copper Harbor. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)

As the walkers neared Great Sand Bay, winds picked up along the Lake Superior shore and rain clouds threatened a storm.

Undaunted by a coming storm on Lake Superior, People of the Heart Water Walkers reach Great Sand Bay and continue up M-26 toward Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor, their final destination, on Oct. 12, 2020 -- Indigenous Peoples' Day. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Trying to beat the storm, Donica Dravillas carries Nibi and Mike Rodriguez carries the Eagle Staff at Great Sand Bay. A reporter, at right, blowing in the wind, takes a video. (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie)

Water Walkers Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie, left, and the Rev. Julie Belew pause for a photo in the wind at Great Sand Bay on Oct. 12. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

As Water Walkers approached Eagle Harbor on Monday afternoon, the rainstorm struck -- with thunder and lightning -- but the Walk continued, with core participants taking turns carrying Nibi and the Eagle Staff on the way to their Copper Harbor destination.

People of the Heart Water Walk participants brave the wet, windy weather as they continue along Lake Superior through Eagle Harbor on Indigenous Peoples' Day. Here Erika Vye of Copper Harbor carries Nibi, and the Rev. Bucky Beach carries the Eagle Staff. Their van follows closely for security. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

During the walk, Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie captured this scenic view of Lake Superior between Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor. She calls it Nibide (heart of the water). (Photo © and courtesy Gichigamikwe Terrie Denomie) 

The rain continued, but the walkers finally reached Copper Harbor, where supporters joined them.

Co-organizer Kathleen Smith commented on the rain.

"As the rain fell upon us it was cleansing. Those that are compelled to do this work were determined to walk and didn't mind walking in the rain," Smith said. "Many people are becoming aware of People of the Heart Water Walk and asked questions, supported and waved. We are planting the seeds of awareness for our precious Nibi throughout Copper Country."

In Copper Harbor, in the wind and the rain, some local residents join the Water Walkers during the last leg of their journey on Oct. 12. (Photo © and courtesy Steve Brimm Photography)

Among the Copper Harbor residents, some of them elders of the community, who joined the Walk were Sherry Mattson, carrying Nibi, and her husband, Rick Draper, carrying the Eagle Staff (in foreground of above photo).

"Both Rick and I (we are both retired Episcopal priests) chose to honor Nibi as we walked on our shore," Mattson told Keweenaw Now. "We believe being part of indigenous celebrations connects us to the historic practices of the Keweenaw. We are also committed to anti-racism."

Marquette resident Kristine McPeak, a 2012 Finlandia University graduate, said she plans to be here for the third annual People of the Heart Water Walk. McPeak said she uses her physical therapy training from Finlandia working as a holistic healer and health coach.

"I had been carrying Artesian well water for almost a year not realizing there was a ceremony around doing so," McPeak said. "Now I carry her with great love and attention." 

Kristine McPeak's Artesian well water. (Photo © and courtesy Kristine McPeak)

"I shall be there for the third Nibi walk," McPeak said. "I'm honored and excited to learn how I can help be a caretaker for water."

Laura Smyth of Calumet, who participated in the 2019 People of the Heart Water Walk, was disappointed not to be able to walk this year, though she helped with the planning.

"Sadly, I wasn't able to participate this year," Smyth told Keweenaw Now. "I was initially participating in the planning and intending to walk but due to the pandemic I ended up not walking. I'm so proud of and impressed by the people who managed it this year despite all the added complications that COVID 19 created."

Finally, Co-organizer Gichigamikwe Terri Denomie posted this on Facebook: "Chi miigwech to EVERYONE that had any part in this! It is so graciously appreciated by us all!"

Denomie added this comment on her relationship with Nibi: "I will always Walk the Talk, I will always Walk for Her as long as there is She and I! I will be doing a few mini walks on my own too!"

Notes:

*Nibi is the Anishinaabe word for Water. Grandma Josephine, Josephine Mandamin of Thunder Bay, Ontario -- who walked about 25,000 miles on the shorelines of the Great Lakes and other waterways -- passed away on  February 22, 2019. She founded the Mother Earth Water Walkers and carried a bucket of water to raise awareness of the need to protect Nibi from pollution.

** See our Nov. 5, 2019, article on the first People of the Heart Water Walk, "Native, non-Native water protectors complete 90-mile Water Walk near Lake Superior."

See also the Nov. 11, 2019, article by Charli Mills, "Guest Article: Experiencing People of the Heart Water Walk."

This article has been updated for some details in identifying walkers. 

Second annual Menominee canoe trip against Back 40 mine begins; water protectors overcome challenges on Menominee River

By Michele Bourdieu
With photos and videos by Tina Lesperance

Water protectors launch their canoes on July 2, 2020, for the second annual four-day, 48-mile canoe trip down the Menominee River to call attention to the environmenmtal and cultural threats of the Back 40 mining project. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

STEPHENSON, Mich. -- Water protectors from the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin and supporters set out from the location of sacred Menominee ancestral burial mounds on the Michigan side of the Menominee River for the second annual  four-day canoe trip to the mouth of the river, where a statue of the Great Bear marks the tribe's place of origin. Despite the challenges of a heavy rain storm and an unfriendly Wisconsin "official," the group safely completed the first all-day leg of their journey.

This ancestral burial mound is one of the Menominee sacred archaeological sites located very near the Menominee River and near the proposed site for the Back 40 mine on the Michigan side of the river. (Keweenaw Now file photo)

"Today is the 1st day of the second annual Menominees on the Menominee!" said Tina Lesperance, a member of the Coalition to Save the Menominee River, on Thursday, July 2, 2020. "This is a 48-mile journey, by canoe, by members of the Menominee Nation to honor the Menominee River and bring awareness to the dangers of a metallic sulfide mining project proposed by Aquila Resources. If constructed the mine would be less than 50 yards from the Menominee River."

Lesperance, known on Facebook as Luna Luiz, has been sharing her videos and photos of the trip with Keweenaw Now. Along with other supporters, she follows the group of canoers and records the trip from the shore as well as bringing them food and other necessities at each overnight stop.

A scenic view of the Menominee River, not far from the proposed Back 40 mine site. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Mary Hansen, activist member of the Coalition to Save the Menominee River and a friend of the Menominee Tribe, fighting with them to save their River, told Keweenaw Now she will be meeting the group of canoers at their destination, the mouth of the river, where the Great Bear stands proudly.

"They are following the ripples on their river that were left for them by their ancestors," Hansen said. "I'm just so blessed to call them friend."

Setting out from sacred sites: Water Ceremony, canoe launch

Water protectors pause for a photo following their water ceremony in the Menominee River held at dawn on July 2 near the Menominee Tribe's sacred sites, now threatened by the proposed Back 40 sulfide mine -- projected to be an open-pit mine for gold, zinc and other metals. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Canoe trip participants carry their canoes down to the Menominee River for the first day's launch on July 2. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

"Wolf" is ready for the challenge of an all-day canoe trip on this beautiful river. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Menominee tribal member Wayne Swett, who was one of three who did the first canoe trip in July 2019 -- the others were Menominee tribal members Dawn Wilber and Jwin Zillier -- prepares to unload his canoe from his vehicle for the first day's launch. Swett, a co-organizer of the event, is also sharing his photos with Keweenaw Now again this year. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Videographer Tony Corey of Stephenson, Mich., assists Wayne Swett in getting their canoe ready for the launch. Keweenaw Now looks forward to some videos from Corey again this year. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Co-organizer and Menominee tribal member Dawn Wilber, who also completed the 2019 Menominee canoe trip, proudly displays the flag of the Menominee Tribe, which she will carry on her canoe. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Menominee leaders speak to fellow water protectors just before they head down the Menominee River to call attention to environmental and cultural treasures threatened by the proposed Back 40 sulfide mine. (Video © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Participants set out on the morning of July 2, 2020, for a full day of canoeing on the river. (Video © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Two challenges face canoers on Day 1 ...

After making through a heavy, windy rainstorm Thursday afternoon, the canoers stopped at their camping destination at a public boat launch near Bear Point -- on the Wisconsin side of the river. Even though the first group had camped there in 2019 and this year's group had stickers for the county park, an unfriendly, rude county employee woke them up late at night and made them leave. By the time they reached a camp site on the Michigan side they were exhausted.

Tina Lesperance recounts the incident in her video here:

Exhausted canoers finally set up camp late Thursday night at Koss Bridge on the Michigan side of the river. (Video © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

Keweenaw Now attempted to contact the Marinette (Wis.) County Parks Office several times today but received no reply to our questions.

Editor's Note: Watch for Part 2 of the Menominee canoe trip, coming soon ...