Tribute to my dad – MacNeil McArthur, September 29, 1940 – October 21, 2023

TEA Elder

Dedicated Dad and Mushum

To honor the memory of a humble man—Mac—who dedicated his life to the principles of education, alliance, and the empowerment of our people. His unwavering commitment to these ideals was not merely a professional pursuit; it was a deeply personal mission shaped by his love for our community and a profound understanding of the transformative power of knowledge.

Dad believed wholeheartedly in the adage that “education is our buffalo.” This metaphor resonated deeply within him, symbolizing sustenance and strength. He often reminded us that just as we feed the buffalo to nourish our bodies, we must also feed our minds and spirits through education. He taught us that knowledge enriches our lives, strengthens our identities, and fortifies our spirits, allowing us to navigate the complexities of our human experience.

His journey in education began with his pivotal role on the WBFN Education Council, where he was instrumental in establishing and building the WBFN school. Additionally hiring staff, some of whom remain dedicated to their positions today. As a devoted student guidance counselor for the WNFN school and past QIRS Board Member, he not only advocated for better educational infrastructure but also laid the groundwork for future generations to lead their nation. He envisioned a school where healthy elders played an integral role in the education of our youth, fostering a sense of community and continuity that honors our traditions while embracing new ideas. This vision propelled Pheasant Rump Little Peoples Learning Lodge, where he continued his elder work with passion and dedication, focusing on hiring educators who shared commitments in nurturing both the mind and spirit of every student: the whole child. His motto, “These are not kids—adding that kids are not animals—they are students, learners, our future,” reflected his belief in the potential of every young person.

Dad understood that education is a collaborative effort, requiring the involvement of school divisions, school professionals, families, communities, and healthy elders. A two eyed seeing approach. He believed that the wisdom of our elders is a priceless resource, guiding our youth as they seek knowledge and understanding. He often said, “We are spiritual beings living a human experience,” emphasizing the importance of nurturing both aspects of our existence. By feeding our spirits with cultural teachings and our minds with academic knowledge, we become stronger, more resilient human beings.

As we reflect on his legacy, let us carry forward his vision of a vibrant educational community—one where every child can learn, grow, and thrive, supported by the wisdom of those who came before them. Our father’s dedication to education was not just about the acquisition of knowledge; it was about building a future rooted in respect, understanding, and shared values, where our worldviews are foundations.

In his honor, let us continue to advocate for education as the foundation of our community. Let us ensure that the voices of our healthy elders and knowledge carriers are heard, and that their teachings are beaded into the regalia of our schools. Let us feed our buffalo—nurturing the spirit of our community through knowledge and shared experiences. Each time a student learns something new, each time a healthy elder or knowledge carrier shares a story of our culture, we contribute to the legacy that our father so passionately championed. Education, in all its forms, is the pathway to empowerment, and it is our responsibility to carry that staff forward.

As we strive to fulfill his vision, we must remember that our work is not just for ourselves but for future generations. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to create an educational environment that celebrates their identity, respects their culture, and equips them with the skills they need to thrive in this ever-changing world. Dad’s belief that “you become a stronger human being” when you nourish your mind, and the spirit will lead like a buffalo.

Let us also reflect on the importance of collaboration and alliance in our educational pursuits. Dad forged connections with educators, community leaders, and families, recognizing that we are all part of a larger family. Together, we can advocate for policies that support our schools, create programs that engage our youth, and foster partnerships that enhance the educational experience. By working together, we can ensure that the legacy of our father’s dedication to education continues to flourish.

In honoring his memory, let us not forget his teachings. Let us engage with our children and youth, encouraging them to ask questions, explore their passions, and seek knowledge. Let us create spaces where they feel safe to express themselves and where their voices are valued. As Dad often said, the nourishment of the mind and spirit is essential for a fulfilling life, and it is our duty to facilitate that journey for those who come after us.

Let us commit ourselves to being advocates for education in our communities. Let us ensure that the values Dad cherished—respect for our elders, a thirst for knowledge, and a deep connection to our cultural roots—remain at the forefront of our educational efforts. Together, we can build a legacy that reflects the love, wisdom, and dedication he shared with us.

As we reflect on his life, we celebrate not only his children, who have all graduated, went to university, but also the achievements of his 20 grandchildren, many of whom have completed their 12 years of formal education and are now pursuing their own paths with confidence and purpose. This year alone, we are proud to share that five more of his grandchildren will be graduating—a true reflection of the legacy he instilled in our family—a legacy that values education while honoring our roots.

As we live out this legacy, we recognize the importance of education not just as a means to an end but as a journey that enriches our lives and connects us to our past. Dad showed us that while we strive for academic excellence, we must also remember where we come from. It is this balance—between ambition and tradition—that will continue to guide us as we nurture the next generation. Education was not confined to the four walls of a classroom; it took place on the land, around the table, in ceremony, and always with a good laugh.

He is so greatly missed.

Let us ensure that his teachings remain alive within us and that we pass them down to our children and grandchildren. Through our collective efforts, we can create a future where education is a bridge to opportunity and where the wisdom of our elders continues to illuminate the path forward.

As we carry his legacy into the future, we will honor the values he cherished—respect for our heritage, the importance of lifelong learning, and a deep connection to our community. Together, we will work to ensure that education remains a priority, not just for our family but for all those in our community.

Dad’s spirit lives on in each of us, inspiring us to strive for greatness while never forgetting the strength of our roots. Let us continue to feed our buffalo, nourishing both our minds and spirits, as we honor his remarkable life and the legacy of education he has gifted to us all.

Let us walk together on this journey, grounded in our ways of knowing and being, as we strive to create a vibrant future for our children and grandchildren, carrying forward the teachings of our father with love and dedication.

A culture of learning, respect, and unity. While he may no longer be with us in body, his teachings and his vision for a brighter future will continue to guide us. As we feed our buffalo, we nourish our community and honor the incredible legacy of a father who inspired us all to be better and to learn continuously.

Through the insight of our Indigenous ways of being, knowing, and doing, Dad embraced a worldview rooted in experiential learning. He understood that education is not merely about the accumulation of facts; it is about cultivating a deep understanding of our identity and the interconnectedness of all aspects of self—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. He taught us to connect these four aspects of self, recognizing that true learning comes from engaging with the world around us, reflecting on our experiences, and understanding our place within the larger tapestry of life.

Dad stood firm in his belief that we cannot be removed when we are planted. He emphasized the importance of grounding ourselves in our culture, our community, and our teachings. This connection to our roots is what allows us to grow strong and resilient, even in the face of challenges. He often reminded us that our identity is intertwined with our land, our stories, and our ancestors, and it is through this connection that we find the strength to grow.  We will keep his spirit alive in our hearts and minds, as we nurture the next generation to grow confidently within their roots, just as he did.

Juanita McArthur-Big Eagle