WITH HEARTFELT GRATITUDE

Surrounded by her family, former District I Representative Sandy Blake is surprised and humbled to be honored at the 2025 State of the Band Address as Chief Executive Wind announced the District I Aquatic and Fitness Center will be re-named in her honor as the Miskwaanakwadookwe Community Center.

Ni Miigwechiwendam.

Words cannot express the feelings I have from the dedication of the new Community Center in my name, Miskwaanakwa dookwe.

It is such a huge honor and the gratitude that I feel for being recognized are beyond description. There is a deep thankful ness within me for family and community. We are all so blessed to be where we are today and we wouldn’t be without the hard work and sacrifices from our parents, grandparents, and our ancestors.

Throughout my life and in my work, I have always been in spired, first by my mother, and then, many more Misizaaga’ig aning Ikwewag. Aunty Shirley Boyd is always someone I’ve looked up to — to be like.

Through watching and listening to these Ikwewag I’ve learned to always work hard and do my best at whatever I do. Gaawiin debinaak izhichige gosha.

Always do what is right. Even when it’s hard.

Most importantly, to be kind to your fellow Anishinaabe. Everyone is going through something and can use a hand up, an Aaniin, or just a smile. Kindness matters.

Do what ever can be done to help when someone is having a hard time.

Our family is our blessing, and I’m especially thankful for all of my grandchildren. They’re truly medicine for my spirit.

The work of the Band is a constant and ongoing force. I’d like to express my thankfulness for our elected leadership and cabinet as well as the Judicial and Legislative Branch’s, and all of the Band employees on every level for the job and ser vice you all bring every day. I’m confident our Tribe is in good hands and our future is bright. You are all valuable and deserve thanks and to be honored.

Always remember, in whatever you do, to be kind and do what you can to help your fellow Anishinaabe. In addition to our Band, I’m very thankful for our language warriors throughout Anishinaabe Aki and the learning and sharing they continue to do. I’m thankful and grateful for our Mide Lodge and Manidoo Dewe’iganag, for these have healed my heart and soul and centered my being. Again, words cannot express how humbled, grateful, and honored I am by this dedication.

Mi’iw Miigwech Bizindawiiyeg.

~Miskwaanakwadookwe, Sandy Blake.