Community contributions recognized
Louise Mayo was honoured at the ceremony last weekend. Courtesy Louise Mayo
Two community members were honoured by the lieutenant governor of Quebec last weekend at a special ceremony held in Monteregie.
Louise Mayo and Helen Kanaieson Nolan were given a First Nations Medal, which recognizes the contributions of First Nations member to their communities. They received their medals at a ceremony held at the 438th Tactical Helicopter Squadron of the Garrison of Saint Hubert, alongside others who were receiving youth and seniors medals for their contributions to other initiatives.
“My work is something I believe in, and I truly enjoy and love doing what I do,” said Mayo. “I enjoy being able to advocate on behalf of the people and for the people.”
Mayo has been active in a number of community roles in recent years, including serving as a coordinator for the Indian Day School settlement and for the First Nations Child and Family Services settlement.
“For other organizations to acknowledge the contributions that I make is heartfelt. They’re seeing people like myself, who care about people,” Mayo said. “The best part was hearing back from people who I’ve helped and hearing them say, ‘You’re truly, truly deserving of that medal.’ That meant a lot to me.”
Mayo was honoured alongside Nolan, who was recognized for her work with elders in town. Most recently, she’s been working alongside Mayo who is spearheading efforts to develop a resource booklet for elders.
“Elders are the largest growing demographic in town, our needs are growing, so they need to be mindfully addressed,” said Nolan, who said that Eleanor Rice and the team at Onkwata’karitáhtshera have been a key part of the project, which came out of Onkwata’karitáhtshera’s Wellness Meetings, that allowed them to focus on the gaps and needs of elders in the community.
She said it was particularly special to be honoured alongside Mayo at the event.
“The work Louise is doing is just fabulous, she works for everyone, every age, it doesn’t matter who you are, Louise just helps,” Nolan said.
The medals received by Nolan and Mayo were designed by Innu artist Julie Charland and Wendat artist Claudia Therrien.
“I was proud, I was very proud that I represented First Nations people in Quebec at that ceremony,” Mayo said.
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She added that it’s not the prospect of public recognition that keeps her motivated to do her work in Kahnawake, but rather seeing the real-world impacts that can happen when the community comes together.
“Growing up, both my parents were deaf, and knowing the extra supports my parents needed, there was always a shortfall, and that just inspired me to be a person in our community that can help people who face difficulties, and who are vulnerable,” Mayo said.
“If I can be their advocate and speak with them and help them achieve what they need, then I’ve done my job.”
