The Road To Your Name fall program held a six-week program of weekly workshops from July to August in the community of Six Nations of the Grand River where the teachings included learning the Thanksgiving Address, basic introductions in the Kanienké:ha language, beading, lacrosse stick lacing and wampum belt knowledge. The program was supported by our Indigenous Knowledge Helpers, Tehahenteh and George Doxtater.
The beading teaching was instructed by Krissy Powless of August Designs. She taught the group basic beading and each participant received the option of making a small medallion or a pop socket phone grip.
Lacing a lacrosse stick is an art that not many know how to do. We were fortunate to be instructed on this teaching by Daniel Henhawk, a lacrosse stick maker in the community. This was an interesting and fun workshop.
The program concluded with wampum belt teachings and all participants made their own personal wampum string. All workshops were grounded in the Kanienké:ha language where culture resides.
Girls Camp
For one week at the end of July, the Road To Your Name program held their first summer camp for young girls. Teachings included the Creation Story focusing on Skywoman, basket making, medicine making and wampum teachings. The girls completed a painting, made a basket and created medicine salve from plantain. They ended the week with a bundle full of cultural knowledge.
The Road To Your Name Program turns its attention to the Road To Your Name Podcast this fall. Look for some new episodes this fall.
Lisa M VanEvery
Yohá:te ne kahsén:na (The Road To your name) Program Coordinator
