Crafting a beaded medallion is a meticulous process that can span several days, even for experienced beadworkers. Therefore, when individuals from non-Indigenous backgrounds receive these culturally significant adornments as gifts, some members of First Nations communities question whether they truly grasp the value embedded within them.
The recent presentation of a beaded medallion to Ontario Premier Doug Ford by the Ontario Native Women’s Association during a meeting with premiers and national Indigenous organizations has stirred discussions online.
This gesture occurred shortly after Ford made controversial remarks suggesting that he had consistently supported First Nations communities and encouraged self-sufficiency. He later apologized for these comments.
According to a statement from the Ontario Native Women’s Association, the medallion, gifted by their CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette, aimed to emphasize the leadership of Indigenous women and the significance of their perspectives in decision-making processes.
In a separate incident this month, Italian-American rapper Russ faced criticism for declining a medallion offered to him during a concert in Toronto.
Following the incident, Russ explained on TikTok that he refused the medallion due to concerns about a potential misuse of a medical emergency situation to gain attention, as the concert had already been halted once for a genuine medical issue.
These occurrences have sparked online conversations about the cultural value of medallions and whether non-Indigenous public figures comprehend and appreciate their significance.
Kerry Benjoe, editor-in-chief of EFN Media and a Saulteaux journalist from Muscowpetung First Nation in Saskatchewan, expressed concerns that medallions might not be appreciated as they should by recipients outside the Indigenous community.
Benjoe highlighted the depth of meaning and skill involved in creating these pieces, emphasizing the historical and ancestral significance they hold for Indigenous artisans.
She stressed that the decision to gift beadwork ultimately lies with the creators, but she advocates for a greater acknowledgment and respect for these cultural artifacts.
Building Relationships through Gifts
Mariah Battiste, a Mi’kmaw bead artist and owner of Sundaylace Creations in Eskasoni First Nation, has presented numerous medallions, including one to her brother Jaime Battiste, the first Mi’kmaw Member of Parliament.
For Mariah, beading as a form of gifting is deeply rooted in her cultural identity, centered on concepts of reciprocity and communal bonds.
She emphasized that within the Mi’kmaq culture, gifting is not about transactions but rather a demonstration of generosity and the establishment of relationships, a practice predating historical treaties.
Battiste acknowledged the ambiguity surrounding gifting medallions to controversial figures, particularly those outside the Indigenous community, viewing it as