As a woman of the Oklahoma Cherokee Nation, it is a great privilege to make my home here in the place called Tkaranto (Toronto), known by our Aanishnaabeg relatives and hosts as “The Land of the Dish With One Spoon.”

This particular area on planet earth is known to be sacred, and is designated as a meeting place for the generations to gather from all four Sacred Directions to begin building the New Earth, in accordance with the prophecies of the 8th Fire.

In accordance with the beautiful tradition of Acknowledging the Land and our Aanishnaabeg relatives from all nations, tribes, and clans:

We give thanks to the Great Spirit who has brought us together in this time and place.

We give thanks to our Mother Earth who provides everything we need to live the biimaasiiwin (good life) during our visit with her.

We give thanks to the Ancestors of the Nations who are sharing their homeland with us, and offering us the teachings and wisdom of this place and her people.

We give thanks to the Grandmothers and Grandfathers – the Elders of all Nations who give us their wisdom and love.

We give thanks to the great people of the Mississaguas of The Credit First Nation, upon whose land we are camping – and who are gracious and generous hosts. Chi Miigwetch.

We give thanks for the Medicine Men and Medicine Women who continue to share their powerful lessons, their medicine, and their vision for the #8thGeneration and beyond.

We give thanks for the people of the 5th, 6th, and 7th Generations who are leading the young ones into the creation of the New Earth.

And, we especially give thanks for this 8th Generation – these young ones who are arriving filled with the seeds of stars and wisdom of the Ancients. We ask the protection of the Great Spirit over these children and youth, and ask that our steps be guided in helping them grow to recognize and use their mighty gifts and talents in service to humanity. A’ho.

There are increasing resources to help people understand and begin to practice Land Acknowledgment Ceremonies.

The University of Toronto has a great article with ideas on conducting ceremonies here.

For information about the Treaty Lands Territory of the Greater Toronto Area, visit this page. To learn more about the Land of the Dish With One Spoon, go here and here.

Chi Miigwetch for being here with us during this profound transition.

Kandace Keithley, 11-18-19

Toronto

Aanishnaabeg Nation

#BirdClanMessenger