Testimonials
We at ICT see Six Nations Iroquois Clans Program as best practice not only for educators but for a wide range of professions. If more people and organizations assisted people in learning the history and culture of local Aboriginal Peoples across Canada this would go a long way to creating more understanding and dispelling a lot of the stereotypes about Aboriginal Peoples.
Rick Monture, Lecturer, Indigenous Studies, McMaster University
Your use of humour, in the true sense of the Haudenosaunee was sure to generate positive comments on our evaluation forms! Your current project, in conjunction with Tuscarora Artist, Raymond Skye on the Six Nations Iroquois Clan Art Cards, is an exceptional educational resource, and as anyone in the Educational field knows; long overdue. Nia:wen
Paula Whitlow, Curator, Chiefswood National Historic Site, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory
There is no doubt, that this project, developed by Mr. Zig Misiak and Mr. Raymond Skye, possesses high educational, as well as cultural and artistic value. It is very desirable on the regional as well as on the National level. I strongly believe that no serious moves aimed at building global understanding, can succeed without or at the sake of disappearance of local cultural roots, at the sake of communal and individual identity.
The authors of this project are very serious and dedicated persons. Mr. Zig Misiak is known as an active scholar of local history, and an ardent performer/educator, re-enacting for many years the glorious pages of early Canadian history. Mr. Raymond Skye is a well-known Six Nations artist and book-illustrator, whose works are not only well known and widely circulate locally, but are known Nationally as well as abroad (e.g., they are part of State and private collections in Russia). Like Mr. Misiak, he is deeply rooted in the history and culture of his people.
Dr. Alexandr Vaschenko, Faculty of Foreign Languages and Area Studies, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
It is high time that the elementary and secondary school students be exposed to rigorous cultural education of Aboriginal People’s in order to facilitate understanding and healing across cultures. Zig and Ray’s sophisticated “Clan Program” admirably fulfills such goals from a unique perspective and is a crucial resource for all Canadian teachers.
Kathryn V. Muller, Doctoral Candidate, Department of History, Queen’s University
Many times Zig and I have sat and talked about the history and culture of the Haudenosaunee people. I find him to be quite knowledgeable in this area. His passion and knowledge about First Nations people keeps him involved in many areas of study relating to the Iroquois. From his studies, both educational and first hand, I admire his accomplishments. He has shown me that it is honourable to discover and embrace other ethnicities with an open mind and caring heart. Such individuals add peace and harmony to this sometimes troubled world. He is a good friend.
Raymond R. Skye, Six Nations Artist, Six Nations Grand River Territory
As the Eagle is the principal messenger of the Creator for the Native people, so Zig is the messenger of peace and understanding for all Canadians. Zig has a solid grasp on the issues which have obstructed the development of a mutually respectful relationship with the Native populations. His ideas and work will help us as educators to reach the developing minds and opinions of our children in time to arrest the spread of stereotypes and prejudices which have created an unacceptable situation of hatred and fear which now burden the spirits of the Canadian people. We need to open our minds and hearts to any initiative which brings peace to all members of our nations.
Dr. Dina Dalia, Principal, St. John’s College, Brantford Ontario, BHNCDSB
Zig Misiak demonstrates both passion and enthusiasm in his presentation on Aboriginal History and Culture. Staff and students appreciate his genuine, down to earth approach and his personal experiences in his reenactments. His appreciation of Aboriginal History and Culture certainly opens up another world to all of us as we learn the true history of our nation and how important Aboriginal Culture and History is to Canada. Thank you Zig.
Michael Lostracco, Principal, Niagara Catholic District School Board.
Mr. Misiak is very inspired by, and respectful of, First Nations communities and is well aware of the richness of culture and traditions which First Nations communities exhibit and celebrate. Mr. Misiak, has long been interested in history and is recognized by many as an acknowledged expert in historical matters.
Lloyd St. Amand, M.P., Brant
I would like to take this opportunity to commend you for the outstanding work that you are doing to provide our schools with the necessary and valuable insight into Native history and culture. You continue to work tirelessly to enhance our children’s knowledge about the Aboriginal population. Your dedication and enthusiasm is tangible and I am in awe of your efforts and your keen interest in our collective history.
Dave Levac, MPP, Brant
Zig’s research and dedication to revealing and, as a history re-enactor, living the accurate history of the relationship between the people of Six Nations and the European settlers has given insight to thousands of non-Native people of all ages to the real history of Canada……Zig’s heart for accuracy, authenticity, and honesty is refreshing.
Jim Windle, Editor, Tekawennake News, Six Nations Territory
I believe that, through his efforts, great progress has been made in developing a relationship between the Six Nations People and our organization, which will continue to strengthen and grow in future years.
Edward Scott UE, Past President United Empire Loyalist Association of Canada
