Today, the upstairs of the arena was filled with learning, laughter, and the sound of traditional tools at work as community members came together to make pemmican—a cherished Naskapi delicacy.
Throughout the day, students from Jimmy Sandy Memorial School visited in groups, guided by teachers and community mentors. The youth learned each step of the process: carefully shaving marrow from bones, grinding the rich mixture, and preparing the nutrient-dense food that has sustained generations.
Pemmican is more than food—it’s a piece of culture and survival. Packed with calories and nutrients, it was once a vital source of energy during long hunts and harsh winters. Today, it remains a symbol of resilience and tradition, passed on from Elders to the younger generation.
Some of the cleaned and saved antler shovels used in the process will also find new life as art projects, ensuring that every part of the harvest continues to hold meaning.
The pemmican made this week will be shared during the upcoming Caribou Festival, where the community will celebrate together with traditional foods and cultural activities.
Want to try making pemmican yourself? Work continues tomorrow morning, and everyone is welcome to take part. Come learn, share stories, and connect with this important tradition.
Photos by Benjamin Jancewicz