In June, we celebrate National Indigenous History Month to recognize the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada. In addition to the many activities and experiences teachers will be sharing in classrooms, leading up to June and throughout the month, Wellington Catholic has organized several virtual guest speakers for our students so that they have the opportunity to learn about different facets of Indigenous culture.
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Session |
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Paint with Isaac Murdoch
Anishinaabe artist Isaac Murdoch will be sharing a painting session with his iconic image: Thunderbird Woman.
Within the session, Isaac will share about the importance of protecting the lands and waters as well as the meaning behind this image. Isaac will also share art techniques and tips as an artist along the way. At the end of the painting, Isaac will showcase a digital resource that is available for use in schools that also includes many of his other images. |
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Nenaboozhoo and Nokomis talk about the water Isaac Murdoch (Serpent River First Nation) and Shannon Paul (Northwest Angle 33) share the importance of water using their puppets Nenaboozhoo and Nokomis. We all have a sacred responsibility to the water. Geared towards primary students (grades K-3) but all are welcome! |
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Jingtamok – Celebrating Through Song and Dance
Naokwegijig (Tim McGregor) will share about the different dance styles, styles of regalia, and the history of jintamok (where it came from). Tim will also share about the format and protocols related to Pow Wow’s and this is a wonderful way to learn about the beautiful Anishinaabe people.
Naokwegijig (Tim McGregor) is a traditional Anishinabenini who dances the Northern Traditional style of dance and having been involved with jingtamok for many decades is knowledgeable of the history and teachings. His parents and grandparents have had a large influence on his traditional upbringing. He has been given teachings by Elders and Veterans from throughout Turtle Island. He has been honoured by the Veterans and been given the right to carry Eagle feathers, the Eagle staff and the sacred Eagle bone whistle on behalf of the Anishinabek people. Blessed to enter a new stage in his life as Mishomis, Life has come full circle as now he has become a teacher of that of which he has learned. |
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Onkwehonwe Life, Culture & Games
In Kanyen'keha (Mohawk), Onkwehonwe translates to ‘the original or first people’. The traditional way of many Onkwehonwe is to live in harmony with Mother Earth. Living in this good way requires a balance of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Games were and are still used as a way to stay healthy and connected to a person's community. During the session Dallas Squire who is Kahnyen’kehàka (Mohawk), Turtle Clan from Six Nations of the Grand River, will share how Onkwehonwe games and the Mohawk culture can create connection and laughter as well as physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Dallas is a former professional Lacrosse player and has been sharing culture and games for over a decade. |