The Positive Drum group formed back in 2017 when a few of the participants from the Positive Voice program at Nokee Kwe in London, Ontario wanted to sing at their first exhibit. 

We had a little window of time to learn a song. We picked our song found a video of it and we just sang along with the words from our book. We got together as much as we could and just practiced that song. We then performed for our first exhibit for the Positive Voice program. It was a hit and the beginning of something super fun and very important to the women who have joined over the past 2 years.

It was a small group back then and has doubled in size with part time and full time singers. The Positive Drum has also included our children; they come out to practices and performances with us, it brings such a fun element we love and adore having them with us. 

As we continue on our journey we learn new songs from other nations and we are pleased to share them with everyone. We have had many great opportunities and feel honored and blessed to meet new people and make friends with people across Ontario. It warms our hearts sharing our stories, truths, culture and showing the strength and resilience of our women and people. 

We have performed at many community events for the London Public Library- Heritage Fair 2018 and 2019, Positive Voice Exhibits 2018 and 2019. The Museum of Ontario Archaeology, the Laubach Literacy Provincial Conference, and MP Irene Mathyssen’s Canada 150 Award Celebration in 2017 and 2018 and Irene’s retirement celebration. London Ontario’s Pioneer Village 2018, Leading women leading girls 2018 and 2019 and many marches. We have had 2 phenomenal years of amazing performances, opportunities and successes that we are extremely grateful for. We recieved  nomination for the 2018 Jack Richardson Music Awards, as well as recording a CD at Western University.

 

Positive Drum members;

Heather Bressette-Hammond- Kettle and Stoney Point- Sucker Fish Clan

Mina Antone (Stacey,Natasha)- Mohawk from Onieda Nation of Thames – Wolf Clan

Leona Antone- Mohawk from Onieda Nation of the Thames- Wolf Clan

Danielle Hill- Onieda Nation of the Thames- Turtle Clan

Colleen Jamieson (Dalyce)- Onieda Nation of the Thames and Chippewa- Turtle Clan

Nikki Peters- Muncee Delware- Turtle Clan

Eagle Woman Matte- Aamjimnaang, Groventure- Bear Clan 

Diane Simspon- Onieda Nation of the Thames- Turtle Clan

Kandy Riley- Chippewa and Onieda Nation of the Thames- Crane Clan

Particia Doxtator- Onieda Nation of the Thames- Wolf Clan 

Miriam- Sodo Cree Mantitoba – Bear Clan