Wanda Brascoupe Peters, colleague, Bear Clan, Kanien'keha, Skarù re’, Anishinabe

I first met Pegi when I was the Executive Director of the Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada. In this role, she asked me to bring my voice to CEGN conferences and ultimately as a board director. As someone new to the non-profit sector I eagerly accepted as I admired her leadership and professionalism. Honestly, I probably got the better end of the deal! 

For me, Pegi represented all the best qualities an Executive Director should be, stalwart, humble and productive. She treated everyone with a warm, gentle, welcoming demeanour that allowed you to bring your best self forward. She made me want to be better both personally and professionally. 

The last time I saw Pegi was 4 years ago, as mothers talking our daughters to look at universities. At that moment, we were the same, mothers doing our best to guide and stand back as our children set out for their great adventure. We shared the usual conversation of school goals and such. But we also connected on an emotional level, both proud and a bit scared of the path ahead. 

To Pegi’s family and loved ones, I send my condolences to all of you. Death in Haudenosaunee culture is a time to grieve, acknowledge and celebrate. We believe that just as you prepare for your loved ones walking on, the ancestors prepare to greet them and celebrate their gifts they have given to the human world.