image with birch trees, a tipi and banner that reads 'The Land Will Heal Gathering'

nintāwīwēw aski - The Land Will Heal Gathering: Celebrating Land, Language, and Wellness in Grand Rapids

Jun 3, 2024

From May 26th to 29th, Frontier staff, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and partner organizations from over 30 communities across the province gathered in Grand Rapids for nintāwīwēw aski - The Land Will Heal Gathering.

This Gathering brought together champions of Land, Language, and Wellness into a shared space of collaboration and learning. Participants engaged with teachings and relationships from all walks of life, including ceremonies with local Elders and Knowledge Keepers, building and participating in sweat lodges, getting hands on with hide work, connecting with water through a simulated canoe quest, learning Cree while preparing geese around the fire, and hearing stories related to trauma and wellness.

We were privileged and honored to have Elders and Knowledge Keepers from numerous communities participate in an Elders Panel, where they shared their relationship with the Land and how our school division can support youth in our communities. Their insights and stories were a pivotal part of the Gathering, inspiring everyone who attended.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to all participants, facilitators, partners, special guests, and our host community of Grand Rapids. Your contributions and support were essential in making this Gathering a success. Thank you to the Teacher Idea Fund for funding this Gathering and helping us to create this opportunity to bring so much lived experience in one space. A special ekosani to the Elders and Knowledge Keepers whose guidance and teachings have left a lasting impact on everyone involved.

We are excited to announce that a video documenting nintāwīwēw aski - The Land Will Heal Gathering will be released in the coming weeks. This video will capture the spirit of the event, the connections made, and the powerful teachings shared. Stay tuned for its release and join us in celebrating the strength and passion of our communities.

Photo credits: Alysa Ferguson, Brady Cable, Liz Halina