By Jacqueline St. Pierre Local Journalism Initiative Reporter WIIKWEMIKOONG-he cold did not keep the community away on the star-filled night, lit by a bright waxing moon. A group of mourners gathered at the Wikwemikoong Healing Lodge to hold a candlelight vigil to kick off Addictions Awareness Week. The walk, led by matriarchs and grandmothers in ceremonial ribbon skirts and carrying a banner is part of a four-day ceremony to honour loved ones lost to the opioid crisis. A traditional firekeeper lit the sacred fire at 11 am Sunday, and people continued to trickle in throughout the day. The sacred fire will remain lit for the traditional four days to help the spirits of the deceased cross over and will end on Wednesday, November 22. Deaths spiked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic…
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