Greetings once again to all of you, here we are, on the verge of Spring 2026!

To say the month of March in my parent’s language would be:

For Ojibway: Onaabani-giizis (Crusted Snow Moon) or Aandego -giizis (Crow Moon)
Plains Cree: Niski-Pisim (Goose Moon)

In both languages, they describe what they would see this time of the year. We have a very descriptive language; it’s as if we talk in pictures.

Last month, Canada designated the month of February as National Indigenous Storytelling Month. I found myself quite busy going to schools and other venues to tell stories. One of my favourites has to do with why the month of February has been given this designation.

It has to do with these “beings” that live underground. They have the ability to shape shift and can turn into any object. In Spring, Summer and Fall, these “beings” will camouflage themselves so they can listen in on human conversations. They do not leave the confines of their underground dwellings in the Wintertime, as they can’t stand snow. They also love to play tricks on human adults because they are quite mischievous. It is very rare they show their true form to adults.

They also absolutely love to play with very young children and will show themselves. They are benevolent to them and will always protect them. Sometimes, Mom and Dad will be in the kitchen and hear their young one talking to someone. They will ask: “who are you talking to?”, the young one will say: “to my friend”. The parents will automatically call this an “imaginary friend”.

In both Ojibway and Plains Cree, we have certain stories we only tell when there is snow on the ground. The rationale being, as long as there is a blanket of snow, these “beings” won’t be able to hear what is said. These “certain” stories are very special. They could have to do with sacred ceremonies, sacred objects or origin. It is for these reasons we will only share this knowledge when there is a blanket of snow on the ground.

When Canada learned of this, they designated February as National Indigenous Storytelling Month.

In closing, I thank all Galleries for the good work you are doing in terms of working towards Truth and Reconciliation. In my mind, how I see things; the Residential Schools existed 122 years in our Province. Truth and Reconciliation will not happen tomorrow, next month, or next year. It will take generations. Before we can walk, we must crawl. Before we can run we must learn to walk.

As a Province, we are beginning to crawl; this is wonderful!

Respectfully,

Lyndon J Linklater
SaskGalleries Indigenous Advisor

From our Advisor: Spring 2026