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.
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.
In the old days, when a woman was about to give birth, the children were sent outside the encampment so they would not be present for the delivery. Ben Mckenzie recounts an anecdote from his childhood at one such time.
Paul-Arthur explains how he applies a poultice of pine sap and on which part of the body. He recounts how he removes the pine sap and explains why this remedy is efficient.
This clip explains how the families who were going to travel together over the land chose their captain (leader) and what his tasks were within the group.
Mrs. André explains how to tan caribou hide by using the brains of the caribou. She lists the stages of tanning. By the end the caribou hide is very supple, as soft as fabric.
Ben Mckenzie names the portage sites on the Moisie River from Labrador City down towards the coast, while explaining the origins of these names. He also indicates where certain kinds of fish are found.
Because they carry their canoes, the Innu have a bump that grows on the back of their neck. We call this the canoe bump. When we explain this phenomenon to doctors, they are very surprised.
Paul-Arthur shows the instrument that the Innu used to use to see far away. A simple wooden rod that does not even have holes in the centre. With this instrument, the Innu were able to locate animals from far away. Today, the Innu no longer use this, they buy very expensive telescopes.
Women who were pregnant had to follow the group as they moved to the interior. They stopped in order for her to give birth, and then the next day they resumed walking. This is the story of the birth of Mr. Marcel Jourdain. It took place during a time of famine. The mother had to eat what little food was available, so that she could then feed her baby. Such was life out on the land.
Paul-Arthur explains that caribou hide can serve various purposes: clothing, drums, moccasins. He says that the Innu are making less and less use of caribou hide and antlers. The Innu have changed many things, as much in their rituals as in their use of caribou hide.
Ben Mckenzie tells the story of an old woman who was killed by her children near a river, which has since borne her name. He also explains the origin of the name of the Kakatshat portage.
Paul-Arthur Mckenzie
