Anishinaabe Grandmother Florence Paynter, a Knowledge Keeper and language speaker from Sandy Bay First Nation, explains her decision to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. As a member of the National

Anishinaabe Grandmother Florence Paynter, a Knowledge Keeper and language speaker from Sandy Bay First Nation, explains her decision to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. As a member of the National Turtle Lodge Council of Knowledge Keepers, her message is significant.

This is Part 4 in a series from Turtle Lodge Elders and Knowledge Keepers addressing COVID-19, vaccines, and traditional medicine. Previous parts include Elder Dr. Dave Courchene (Part 1), Grandmother Mary Maytwayashing (Part 2), and Elder Chief Dr. Harry Bone (Part 3), who discuss balancing modern and traditional medicine.

A French version is also available: Cliquez ici pour la version française.

Grandmother Margaret Behan (Cheyenne), also known as "Global Grandmother," is a prominent spokesperson for Mother Earth's rights and nature preservation. Since co-founding the International

Grandmother Margaret Behan (Cheyenne), also known as "Global Grandmother," is a prominent spokesperson for Mother Earth's rights and nature preservation. Since co-founding the International Council for Thirteen Indigenous Grandmothers in 2004, she has advocated for safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Behan will share her personal journey through addiction and recovery, including her spiritual awakening after achieving sobriety. She is scheduled to speak at the SEED Institute's "Wisdom from the Origins" conference in Albuquerque on September 14, 2012.

The National Turtle Lodge Elders’ and Knowledge Keepers’ Council calls for a National Day of Prayer on Sunday, June 6, 2021, at various times across Canada. This collective prayer responds to

The National Turtle Lodge Elders’ and Knowledge Keepers’ Council calls for a National Day of Prayer on Sunday, June 6, 2021, at various times across Canada. This collective prayer responds to the tragic discovery of 215 children at a Kamloops residential school, honoring all affected by the residential school system.

Elders and Knowledge Keepers will lead ceremonies, lifting Sacred Pipes and lighting Sacred Fires, praying in Original Languages. Their aim is healing, fostering a new relationship based on love and kindness, and supporting today's children through ancestral ways.

All are invited to join this Sunday by participating in their own traditions. A special gathering at Turtle Lodge in July will seek further spiritual guidance for the country's path forward.

Join the Commonwealth Club’s Virtual Gala on November 19 at 6 pm to celebrate women in science and medicine. Raise a glass to Good Health! Learn more or register at