City of Markham Hosts Eabametoong First Nation Student Art Exhibit

Yesterday, three students from John C. Yesno Education Centre in Eabametoong First Nation visited Markham Civic Centre and presented a student art exhibit. As part of a creative arts project, the artwork depicts the students’ vision of their community in 10 years. The Eabametoong student artwork will be on display in the Great Hall of the Markham Civic Centre from Wednesday, April 12 to Wednesday, April 19.

The student artwork includes artistic designs, storybooks and community drawings. Student artists include: Tanisha Raven, Alarra Wabano, and Madison Meeseetawageesic.

“At the heart of these student art exhibits is a reflection of what Eabametoong First Nation and Canada can be,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Bringing these three Eabametoong students and their art pieces to Markham creates a great opportunity for our residents to learn more about our partner community and their aspirations for the future.”

“We are absolutely thrilled with our partnership with the City of Markham,” said Bob Salvisburg, Principal of John C. Yesno Educational Centre. “I can only say the future of our community has taken a dramatic step forward because of the opportunity this partnership presents to both the members of Eabametoong First Nation and the citizens of Markham.”

On January 31, 2017 the City of Markham signed a historic accord – an agreement of Cultural Collaboration with Eabametoong First Nation, also known as Fort Hope. Eabametoong is an Ojibway First Nation located 360 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Eabametoong is only accessible by air and winter road.

Through the agreement Markham and Eabametoong have committed to:

• Promote social, cultural and economic collaboration in conjunction with Canada’s 150 anniversary
  
• Promote harmony and goodwill for the betterment of their residents
  
• Stimulate public awareness
  

Since the agreement has been signed, the City of Markham and Eabametoong First Nation have a number of initiatives underway. Markham Public Library has now opened its doors to Eabametoong’s youth with digital access to Markham’s library collections. In June, Markham visitors will travel to Eabametoong First Nation to experience eco-tourism, indigenous culture and arts. As part of the City of Markham’s signature Canada 150 celebrations, a Markham 150 Expo will be held in September. The Expo will feature local performances, vendors and activities that explore our past, present and future.

About Eabametoong First Nation: Eabametoong First Nation, also known as Fort Hope is a proud member of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation and the Matawa Tribal Council and a signatory to Treaty 9. Located 360 kilometres north of Thunder Bay on the northern shore of Eabamet Lake along the Albany River, Eabametoong is accessible by air and winter road. The total population, according to the 2014 census, totals over 2,500 people, of which approximately 1,500 live on-reserve.