Led by world-renowned artist, Eunice Ketchemonia-Cote, the program was hosted by the Cote First Nation Youth Centre and sponsored through a grant by the Cote Prevention Program.
After a long stretch of COVID lockdowns at the youth centre and the school, the program offered an opportunity for the girls to join peers in their own age group, connect with their culture, and take pride in their identity and where they come from.
Over a phone interview with the Kamsack Times, youth centre workers Matilda Kayseas and Loretta Friday explained the significance of the program and the impact it had on all involved.
“The pandemic has been very difficult on our youth,” shared Kayseas. “Kids have been stuck at home and not allowed to go anywhere. The ribbon skirt project offered them a chance to get together and feel like they’re not alone.”
“Eunice Ketchemonia-Cote is a local treasure. We were so fortunate to have her lead our girls in this program,” shared Friday. “She is the best-of-the-best and very well-known around the world for her works including ribbon skirts, star blankets, and purses – and she is right here in our own backyard.”
The young women participated in four sessions, with each session lasting four hours. Sewing machines were either brought in from homes or borrowed from the Chief Gabriel Cote Education Complex, Cote Health, and Wings of Hope. The grant helped in the purchase of the fabric and ribbons required.
“It was wonderful to witness. As their skills grew, these girls truly realized what they are capable of,” explained Friday.
Youth Centre workers Alvin Badger, Loretta Friday, Sarah Gambler, and Matilda Kayseas worked well together to ensure the program ran smoothly. Fred Gambler stepped up to cook hot lunches for participants.
“It was a great success because of some excellent teamwork,” offered Friday.
The youth centre says they plan on running the program on an annual basis in the future.
“Our overall goal is to have every young lady learn how to make her own ribbon skirt,” said Friday. “In the future, we would love to open up registration to those beyond the Cote Nation and share this beautiful teaching to many future generations.
“We would also like to acknowledge Chief George Cote and Council with a special thank-you for ensuring we had the financial support to offer this meaningful program to our young ladies.”
