Innu Oral Stories

In the past the Innu probably had their own religion. They weren’t baptised like nowadays. As for the shaking tent, it was very powerful. It was only used by the Elders to obtain information.

Paul-Arthur explains that the Innu often used the power of prayer in everything they did. He says that they did not use any spiritual force other than that of the Catholic religion. The Innu were very pious and religious celebrations were very important to them.

Marie Mckenzie recites the Lord’s Prayer before beginning her interview.

Aiashess is a young boy who is abandoned by his jealous father on an island. He then undertakes a long journey to find his parents again. Part 1: Aiashess is abandoned by his father on an island and is brought to the shore.

The recording is divided into three parts.

The Innu encountered difficulties when they were out on the land. Nowadays things are different, life is more comfortable.

It’s important to listen to the Elders, because it is by listening that we learn their story. 

Even though she will soon be 84 years old, she is young at heart and does not feel old at all.

Paul-Arthur recounts that his mother used to pull him on a toboggan while she was pregnant. She was not the only one, all the women worked very hard, even when pregnant. He says that this is no longer the case today.

Mr. William Mathieu Mark explains the role of legends and their importance. He says that legends are a good thing. There are legends everywhere amongst Aboriginal people. They are the same legends but with some variations; the other Aboriginal nations also have the legend of Tshakapesh, Aiashess and Mishtapush. Legends were told so that children could learn, could know the way of life of their parents.