Springtime in Kitkatla violence and the secrets that bind

and the secrets that bind and endanger us

Whether connecting with one's Ojibwe ancestry or simply opening children's eyes and ears to the cornucopia of North American dialects

Frank LaPena

of family and self

Springtime in Kitkatla violence and the secrets that bindWalaas is excited to visit her family's reserve, Kitkatla, for spring break. Kitkatla always feels like home. She and her dzi'i (grandmother) travel there by fishing boat, and on the way Walaas spots porpoises in the sparkling waves. Once they arrive, they stay with her da'as (auntie), and her mom comes too to join in the fun. The days pass slowly as Walaas spends time with family, wanders the shore and enjoys foods you can't get in town, like fresh