Sasquatch and Orion, for the Anishnabe

Orion is called the Giant, by the Anishnabe. After the Big Dipper, the three stars that form the belt of what the Greeks called Orion is probably the best known star pattern.

The Anishnabe (Ojibway) call this whole constellation (including the belt) Nanabush Anung, or Wesakaychack in Cree.

The Anishnabe say that Nanabush is the older brother and teacher of their people. He is also called Misabe by some Anishnabe, which translates into English as the Giant. In the Cree language e is called Mistapiw, also translated as the Giant.

Both the Anishnabe and Cree know Nanabush Anung or Wesakaychack as a teacher, but also a mischeivious trickster and shape-shifter. At times he takes the form of a hairy giant, who some Elders joke could make him the ‘Sasquatch’ or ‘Bigfoot’ constellation.