Land Acknowledgement
The land that is known as Chatham-Kent today is the traditional land of the Three Fires Confederacy: the Odawa, Potawatami and Ojibwe. These Indigenous Nations, known as the Anishinaabeg and Lunaapeew, agreed to the mutual sharing of the land, with obligations and responsibilities to the environment. Chatham-Kent neighbours the Lunaapeew at Delaware Nation which is part of the McKee Purchase Treaty, as well as the unceded territory of the Bkejwanong Walpole Island First Nation. Chatham-Kent continues to be home to diverse First Nations Peoples and Métis Peoples. This land was settled through the McKee Purchase Treaty of 1790 and we, as beneficiaries of the treaty, recognize our responsibilities including our collective responsibilities to the land and water. Today these responsibilities and obligations extend to all Peoples.
We invite you to reflect upon this land acknowledgement, what it means to you, and how you are upholding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. Thank you to the Knowledge Keepers of the 'Culture Card Committee' for creating and enabling us to share the A Road to Understanding Indigenous Culture document.
Learn more about Lunaapeew of the Delaware Nation
Learn more about Walpole Island First Nation, Bkejwanong Territory
Upcoming Events
Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit Pow Wow
Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit is hosting their annual Pow Wow on Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1st. Everyone is welcome.
- Location: Behind the Community Centre at 14811 Schools Line in Bothwell.
- Admission: General $10. Seniors $5. Children under 10 are free.
- Grand entry: 12PM and 7PM on Saturday and 12PM on Sunday. Host drum is Naahii Singers.
- No pets allowed, except service animals with appropriate documentation.
- Learn more about the Pow Wow on their website.
Learn more about Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit
- Learn more about the Lunaapeew and , Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit on their website.
Learn more about Pow Wows and etiquette:
Tips for Attending:
- Listen to the Master of Ceremonies – they'll explain what's happening to help visitors.
- Ask permission before taking pictures.
- Want to get in on the dancing? Listen for the Intertribal dances - these are for all people present to partake in the dance.
- Don't touch people's regalia without permission. They are not costumes and hold special meaning to dancers.
- Support the vendors. Some vendors may have interact or etransfer options, but please make sure you have cash on hand as well.
- Outdoor settings are sometimes uneven so watch your footing.
- Sometimes bleachers are available for people, but it never hurts to bring a chair with you.
- Seats closest to the dancing circle are reserved for singers, dancers, and drummers.
- Respect that some sections set aside for those with mobility issues to sit with mobile chairs or walkers.
Awaken Your Spirit; A Spirit Horse Encounter
"Awaken Your Spirit" is a three hour Ojibwe Spirit Horse encounter that includes an opportunity to learn about the historic Ojibwe Spirit Horses and their connection to the First Nation culture and history. It also allows for a chance to learn about First Nations and Métis cultures. The experience begins with a welcoming encampment fire, the sounds of the Métis fiddle and an introduction to the camp's Métis fur trader. Visitors will then explore the camp, the Tipi lodge and listen to the stories of the horses told through Indigenous Art of Rhonda Snow. Visitors will enjoy shared traditional practices, songs and drumming, followed by the story of the Little Horses and their incredible bond with Mother Earth. To culminate this significant experience, visitors will be provided an opportunity to feel the immense power of these small but mighty horses as they mingle with them in the field and reflect around the fire.
Booking is available through TJ Stables. For pricing and more details, contact TJ Stables or have a look at the description.
TJ Stables in partnership with Chatham-Kent Tourism and the Southwestern Ontario Tourism Corporation (SWOTC) announce the first Chatham-Kent Signature Indigenous Experience. Indigenous Tourism Ontario has been a collaborating partner in the experience as well, allowing for consultation throughout the creative process.
Annually, June 21 is recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day. On this day, we recognize the anniversary of celebrating the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
