“Little Mother”
In Algonquin; Nohkumis is the word for ‘auntie’ which translates to English literally as ‘little mother.’ Traditionally and pre-colonization, our women would birth with the assistance of a medicine woman and a sister, cousin, or aunt. This extra support person was considered the ‘doula’ of that time and was given the title Nohkumis (auntie/little mother) to the newborn. Throughout history there have been other woman supporting and taking a huge role in helping birthing people. As a young woman myself, although I am not a mother, I am an auntie. Nohkumis Nation celebrates all women, all birthing people and everyone in between. It takes a village to raise a child and lots of aunties!!
These are the beautiful women I come from, my matriarch. The women in my family are what holds us together. My two aunts are like mothers to me. This is dedicated them, and my late mother who was an aunt to all.
Lastly my paternal grandmother who is always been the base of our family. I Love you, thank you for every ounce of your love.