Elder Dr. David Courchene introduced a Pipe ceremony at the launch of "Wahbanung - The Resurgence of the People: Clearing the Path to Our Survival," a new book by Turtle Lodge Knowledge Keepers.

Elder Dr. David Courchene introduced a Pipe ceremony at the launch of "Wahbanung - The Resurgence of the People: Clearing the Path to Our Survival," a new book by Turtle Lodge Knowledge Keepers. Watch his presentation introducing the book here.

The "Summary of Wahbanung - The Resurgence of a People: Clearing the Path for Our Survival" is available for purchase. Find your copy at turtlelodge.org/wahbanung/.

On Earth Day 2020, Elder Nii Gaani Aki (Leading Earth Man), Dr. David Courchene of Turtle Lodge, Canada, shared a profound message.

He conveyed that Mother Earth is currently giving birth

On Earth Day 2020, Elder Nii Gaani Aki (Leading Earth Man), Dr. David Courchene of Turtle Lodge, Canada, shared a profound message.

He conveyed that Mother Earth is currently giving birth to a new life.

Dave Courchene's dream conveys a Grandfather's urgent message: profound Earth changes are imminent. Humanity must prepare for a simple, spiritual life, detached from technology that harms the

Dave Courchene's dream conveys a Grandfather's urgent message: profound Earth changes are imminent. Humanity must prepare for a simple, spiritual life, detached from technology that harms the land. He observes current global conditions reflect an unsustainable path of selfishness and greed, necessitating a fundamental shift towards kindness, compassion, and sharing for a "New Life."

Indigenous peoples, faithful to original instructions of love and care for Earth, are called to lead this transformation. Their wisdom centers on the Seven Sacred Laws—Respect, Love, Courage, Honesty, Wisdom, Humility, and Truth—each exemplified by an animal. Living these laws on Turtle Island is vital for peace, freedom, and universal alignment, offering a vision of hope for humanity.

A message titled "A DREAM: Get Ready" was received by Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Dave Courchene), Leading Earth Man, on September 25, 2018, and posted by The Turtle Lodge.

The message conveys an

A message titled "A DREAM: Get Ready" was received by Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Dave Courchene), Leading Earth Man, on September 25, 2018, and posted by The Turtle Lodge.

The message conveys an urgent sense that "change is very close," leaving no time to waste. The recipient pondered if this change would be natural, like extreme weather, earthquakes, or hurricanes, or an an economic collapse akin to a severe depression. Reflecting on current world conditions, it emphasizes the undeniable need for a major shift in attitudes towards values that support life, urging us to be more kind, compassionate, giving, and sharing.

The "Reconciling Ways of Knowing Dialogue 2: Enacting Ethical Space in Knowledge Sharing" continued the conversation on Indigenous knowledge and science. This second dialogue specifically explored

The "Reconciling Ways of Knowing Dialogue 2: Enacting Ethical Space in Knowledge Sharing" continued the conversation on Indigenous knowledge and science. This second dialogue specifically explored Indigenous Ethics in relation to Indigenous knowledges.

It convened a diverse group of Indigenous knowledge holders, scholars, practitioners, and scientists to discuss these critical themes.

For more information, visit waysofknowingforum.ca/discussion2 and turtlelodge.org.

Elder Dave Courchene delivered a Convocation Address at the University of Winnipeg on June 13, 2019, where he was honored with a Doctor of Laws.

He urged humanity to confront the reality of

Elder Dave Courchene delivered a Convocation Address at the University of Winnipeg on June 13, 2019, where he was honored with a Doctor of Laws.

He urged humanity to confront the reality of its impact on Earth and ourselves. Courchene emphasized the critical need for good leadership, asserting that everyone possesses the capacity to lead.

The first Igniting the Fire Gathering, initiated by Elder Dave Courchene, occurred in 2006 at Manitou Api, a sacred site in Manitoba's Whiteshell Provincial Park. This event, featuring Elders

The first Igniting the Fire Gathering, initiated by Elder Dave Courchene, occurred in 2006 at Manitou Api, a sacred site in Manitoba's Whiteshell Provincial Park. This event, featuring Elders Robin Greene and Don Cardinal, reunited Original Peoples, with turtles symbolizing new life and Indigenous rebirth.

Now an annual event by Turtle Lodge, Igniting the Fire is open to all cultures, bringing nations to Manitou Api to share knowledge and ceremonies, with Elders transferring wisdom to youth. Attendance grew from 350 in 2006. Documentaries, including *The 8th Fire* (www.the8thfire.org), have featured the event. For more, visit Igniting the Fire or Dave Courchene Jr.

The Turtle Lodge was built in 2002, following a vision received by Dave Courchene (Nii Gaani Aki Inini - Leading Earth Man) of the Anishnabe Nation, Eagle Clan. Learn more at