Explain to the students that Wolastoq is now called the Saint John River. Have students search online to find when the name was changed and why? Ask them to think about how the people who lived there already would have felt about the name change. How would they feel if suddenly the name of their river was changed and put in a different language? Watch Elder Imelda Perley express her feelings about the name change of Wolastoq. (see Identity section: Kinship starting at 11:04) https://www.wabanakicollection.com/videos/culture-studies-videos/
Also listen to Elder Gwen Bear sing the song about Wolastoq in Wolastoqey Latuwewakon and English. (See Song section: Wolastoq) Why does this song sound soulful? https://www.wabanakicollection.com/videos/culture-studies-videos/
How does this song show respect for Wolastoq? How does it make you feel?
