LITTLETON, Maine — The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians held their 28th annual Recognition Day Celebration under a beautiful Sept. 20 sky. Many said the drug and alcohol free event was blessed as an American eagle soared low over the gathering of nearly 550 for a closer look.
This year’s theme was ‘gathering in celebration of the People of the Meduxnekeag.’ Each year during the federal recognition day, the tribal leaders and staff give back to the tribal community with events including a sacred fire, native crafters, bingo and other games, a commemorative postal cancellation, fancy dancers, native singing and drumming.
Traditional events like the opening ceremony, a smudging and pipe ceremony, grand entry, bountiful feast and bonfire honor the tribal elders, veterans, chief and council.
The Maliseets also marked the day with host drummers Four Winds and other drum groups from the county and Canada performing native Maliseet and Micmac chants as part of the cultural history of the original residents of the Meduxnekeag region. The drum is believed to represent the heartbeat of the tribe.
“We always invite the surrounding communities to this event, especially to share in our meal at the gym that is catered by SAVE and supplemented with traditional dishes prepared by tribal members,” said organizer Danya Boyce.
