Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
Upholding Values
Hiawatha First Nation has always held pride in values that are guided by traditional beliefs, teachings, and principles that shape attitudes toward healing, spirituality, and community life.
Central to these values are the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which have been passed down through generations and continue to guide Indigenous Peoples to live together in peace, balance, and mutual respect. Preserving and visibly honouring these teachings is essential to maintaining cultural continuity, spiritual wellbeing, and connection to ancestors.
These values are front and centre as Hiawatha First Nation looks to restore the columbarium at its community cemetery. Critical updates are required to ensure this sacred space continues to reflect and uphold core teachings. The proposed upgrades include the installation of a new concrete base around the columbarium area with the Seven Grandfather Teachings impressed directly into the concrete surface. This will promote and revitalize inherent teachings, traditions, and language passed down from ancestors, ensuring they remain present, respected, and accessible for current and future generations.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is providing funding to help cover costs associated with hiring contractors and other professionals to restore the columbarium properly with dignity and respect, in a manner that is culturally appropriate. This project will go hand-in-hand with other initiatives underway at Hiawatha First Nation to bring a new era of healing and Indigenous pride to the community. The IRF is proud to be part of this incredible journey for the Nation and its members.
Diocese of Peterborough
