Religion is an important part of cultures. Religion has the power to shape personal lives as well as communities. It can provide meaning and a sense of belonging to many people. It can also help foster community engagement. Religion is an important aspect of life and deserves to be protected no matter what the religion, faith, or belief.

The plight of religious refugees is a pressing issue in today’s world. Refugees often face harrowing journeys and uncertain futures. Some flee to neighboring countries for hope of sanctuary, even if temporary. Some are forced to leave home but are forced to stay in their homeland, as they do not have the resources to leave. Some make it to Western countries and willingly face unfamiliar circumstances and cultures just to feel safe.

There is a huge loss of language within Ojibwe culture from when the elders were much younger (such as 40 years ago) to our generation now. It was one of the many losses within our culture that has been the hardest to try and bring back. 

New Pendulum on the Pow Wow Grounds. From Wahnapitae First Nation and Loss of Language in the Culture
New Pendulum on the Pow Wow Grounds

Aanii, My name is Kadence and I am from Ontario, Canada. I would like to share my experience with Indigenous land-based cultural healing camps and how life-changing it was for me. These cultural practices are especially needed in smaller remote communities; because they are so isolated from the rest of society, they lack the privilege of good education, social opportunities, and new experiences. This can have a negative effect on the mental and physical health of people who live in these communities. 

 

Have you always wondered about the Indigenous Peoples of Canada? Their traditions, culture, and history? No worry, because I will tell you about some of our traditions! My name is Kylee Waboose, and I’m from Long Lake #58 First Nation in Northern Ontario. It’s approximately eight hours northwest of North Bay. 

In this article, I will share two areas that are important to our culture: fasting ceremonies and vision quests.

There are seven sacred teachings in the indigenous culture that relate to common morals, but it is connected to the medicine wheel: a four-direction circle that consists of four colours, black, white, yellow, and red. The medicine wheel is separated into these four directions, and each direction represents the spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual ways of life. 

Muskoka is a beautiful place to live and visit, known for its beautiful landscapes, sunsets, and waterways. We all know traveling and entertainment in cottage country can be pricey. I’d like to show you three beautiful parks you can enjoy for the day...absolutely free! I’ve been fortunate enough to call Bracebridge my home for the past 10 years. All three of these nature spots are located within a 15-minute drive of downtown Bracebridge, right in the heart of Muskoka.