Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

Florence Patterson the volunteer CEO of Pamoja International Cultural Exchange Inc. (PICEI) is inviting the Akwesasne community to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony of the PICEI Annex Office. This office is being dedicated in memory of an Akwesasronon Jean Tewatenniheh Herne. The event is scheduled to take place on August 26, 2011 at 3:30pm in Brasher Falls, NY.

“When Jean passed away we began trying to think of ways that we can remember her and the contributions she made to the community and this organization.” said Patterson. “I remember how much her culture meant to her.”

PICEI has been working for three-years to get their own building as a home-base for the work that they do setting up cultural exchange trips and publishing their magazine. The group will be having a formal plaque made noting the dedication of the office in memory of Tewatenniheh.

“We are also going to have a presentation by one of her granddaughters and her travels to different countries to work with kids and families,” said Patterson referencing Herbi Francis who has been traveling to Africa and other nations to help people. “We are also going to have Chrysetta Patterson on hand to talk about different cultures for those who want to hear more.”

Patterson indicated that other attendees of the event include the PICEI Editor of Publications Mildred Glenn from Tallahasse, Florida. Stacy Skidders has been invited to represent the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council, along with officials from the Town of Brasher and other active members throughout the PICEI organization.

“We will be on CKON Radio on August 22 to talk about this event, our organization and to see if anyone in the community has any questions,” notes Patterson. “The goal of PICEI is to have every person proud of who they are culturally, to learn about themselves as well as others.”

The motto of the PICEI organization is ‘United, But Distinct’ as they plan trips around the world to share the culture of different places. Currently they are planning a cruise that should leave around October 22 that will travel throughout the Caribbean to meet with different indigenous people and share Mohawk culture with them and to learn about the indigenous cultures in the different regions.

“Jean was always so proud of her culture and the work she did at Salmon River Central School with the after-school programs, but now with the active Boys & Girls Club we can focus on other projects,” said Patterson. “We are hoping to have a free movie screening under the stars on Sundays in Generations Park during September so the community can come out and enjoy themselves.”

All of the Akwesasne community are invited to participate in these different events and should they have any questions they can call 866-660-5116.