For Our Tomorrow

As Indigenous communities seek to invest in the future, they are turning to the true changemakers of tomorrow: Indigenous youth. Across Canada, there is a need for culturally grounded programming to support youth in engaging in ceremony, leadership, and cultural learning to carry on sacred traditions.

This has led to a wave of new initiatives designed to bring Indigenous children back to their roots. Many organizations have found that the best way to empower youth is through hands-on learning opportunities such as Pow Wows or land-based educational programming.

Serving Eastern Ontario, the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition and Minwaashin Lodge are recognizing the power of their children through the Children and Youth Pow Wow. The Pow Wow will provide opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills and become more involved in their communities and will include cultural ceremonies such as a Baby Welcoming Ceremony, First Time Dancer Ceremony, and Walking Out Ceremony. Elders and Knowledge Keepers will share sacred knowledge through storytelling and workshops to highlight diverse cultural practices and inspire young Indigenous Peoples to learn more about their culture. Youth can give back to their communities while reconnecting with their cultural roots to strengthen identity, belonging, and intergenerational connection.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is proud to contribute funding to help ensure the Pow Wow has all the materials and resources it needs to run smoothly. This support helps restore an important and long-standing community gathering that has been deeply missed and is more important than ever. It creates opportunities for dialogue, shared understanding, and brings families and youth together in celebration.

Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall