Journey of Nishiyuu youth walkers reach Ottawa

After walking more than 1,600 kilometres over the past three months, the Journey of Nishiyuu reached its final destination when about 300 walkers marched to the steps of Parliament Hill on March 25.
Inspired by the Idle No More movement and Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence’s fast, six youth and their guide departed Whapmagoostui First Nation, located along the Hudson Bay coast in Quebec, in mid-January to begin their trek to Ottawa.
Braving –50 C temperatures and walking traditional paths in snowshoes, Jordon Masty, David Kawapit Jr., Stanley George Jr., Travis George, Johnny Abraham, Raymond Kawapit and Gordie Rupert journeyed through the isolated lowlands of their traditional territory.
Speaking on Parliament Hill in Cree, David Kawapit, 18, said the idea for the walk began after he had a vision that involved a wolf and a bear. He said the wolf symbolized First Nations people in Canada and the bear symbolized the government.
“A wolf alone can be easily killed by it, but with its brothers and sisters everywhere, it can call upon them and it can take down the bear with ease.” Kawapit said. “That is what became the unity part of this. We all need to stand together.”
The seven walkers were joined by other youth as they reached the James Bay communities of Chisasibi, Wemindji, Eastmain and Waskaganish.
The Journey of Nishiyuu grew to nearly 300 youth by the time the walkers departed Chelsea, Que., on March 25 to complete the final 18 kilometres to Ottawa.
Spence, National Chief Shawn Atleo, and Grand Council of the Crees Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come and more than 4,000 people were on hand to welcome the walkers, first at Victoria Island, where Spence had conducted her fast, and then at Parliament Hill.
As the celebration began, an eagle soared overhead and circled behind the Parliament Buildings, prompting applause from those below.
As with other Idle No More rallies, the day ended with drum songs and a rounddance.
The Journey of Nishiyuu was a life-changing experience for the original seven walkers. And while this journey is over, it is a beginning of another.
“When we reached every town, I cried every time in my room,” said Gordie Rupert, 21. “What would happen if we didn’t start this journey? We have to keep our land, we have to. It is the only way we can live.”