Checking In with @waterkeepermark and Swim Drink Fish Ambassador Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee
In this installment of the Checking In series, Mark Mattson speaks with Swim Drink Fish Ambassador Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee.
Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee retired as Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief after spending 46 years working on First Nation issues. He is an advisor and former President of the Little NHL, and is an advisor to Great Lakes Guide. Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee has helped the Swim Drink Fish movement connect with Indigenous history and language.
MM: How are you doing?
PM: Good, thank you. I’ve been doing relatively well, but I’m anxious to do more and get back to normal. I have been feeling restful, but my sleep patterns have changed a little. I’m staying up later and sleeping in a little more in the morning.
MM: Where are you living?
PM: Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation on Manitoulin Island. It’s near the North Channel.
MM: What are you looking forward to most?
PM: I’m looking forward to being outdoors! And being on the lake, and cruising around the island in my classic truck. And having a few golf games too.
MM: How have the last few months changed your outlook?
PM: I’m much more focused on my nutritional needs. I’m eating healthier. I am taking precautions to ensure I can handle whatever comes - like a second wave of this virus. In general, those of us who live in less populated areas are able to socially distance easier than others in areas with more dense populations.
But like everyone, we are missing big gatherings. Change is definitely coming and I’m leery and more careful about my lifestyle. Our upbringing and tradition teach us that nature has its own way of dealing with the earth and all living things. Accept that Mother Earth is unfolding. It isn’t the first and it won’t be the last virus. We cannot live in fear.
MM: What is your favourite fish?
PM: Northern pike. I love the fight and the taste of the fish.
MM: What citizen engagement activities around water are you involved in?
PM: Taking my family out on the water. I’m taking my sister and cousins out fishing next week. And we’ll be observant of nature - what’s underwater, on land, and in the sky. Noticing eagles, and fish, and deer. We’re always looking around and watching.
I also like taking note of and sharing observations about weeds and water temperature. It’s become a routine over the years. And I love to observe.
Read more from the Checking In with @waterkeepermark series here.
Connect with us on Twitter, @LOWaterkeeper and @waterkeepermark.
