Mah Pe Ya Mini (Henry Skywater), a respected Dakota Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and ceremonial leader, often shared his "Spirit of Life" song. He connected it to the Dakota creation story: a blue

Mah Pe Ya Mini (Henry Skywater), a respected Dakota Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and ceremonial leader, often shared his "Spirit of Life" song. He connected it to the Dakota creation story: a blue light journeys from a heavenly house to a mother's womb, lives on Earth, and then returns to its celestial origin.

The song's essence, "Lightning beings! It's me! There is a house in the heavens where I was born," reflects this journey. Shared with his family's permission to continue his legacy, this video is posted on behalf of the Turtle Lodge, where Henry was an Elder, and Elders Circle Seven, who honored him with the Mikinak-Keya Spirit Tour. Learn more about Henry Skywater: Turtle Lodge.

Panel Discussion with Knowledge Keepers – Part 1/ June 23, 2020

(Canada)

In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, Anishinaabe Elder Dr. David Courchene, Métis

Panel Discussion with Knowledge Keepers – Part 1/ June 23, 2020

(Canada)

In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, Anishinaabe Elder Dr. David Courchene, Métis Cree knowledge keeper Maria Campbell, and Inuk professor and Elder Dr. Karla J. Williamson participated in a panel discussion with Canadian Ministers Carolyn Bennett, Marc Miller, and Dan Vandal. This first installment in a two-part conversation touches on a variety of important topics to Indigenous peoples across Canada.(transcript)

Yesterday, the National Turtle Lodge Council of Elders and Knowledge Keepers honored Elder Dr. Dave Courchene, Jr. He was recognized for his leadership, service to the People and Mother Earth, and

Yesterday, the National Turtle Lodge Council of Elders and Knowledge Keepers honored Elder Dr. Dave Courchene, Jr. He was recognized for his leadership, service to the People and Mother Earth, and his work in fulfilling the Turtle Lodge's vision.

His spiritual names, Nitamabit (The Original Way and One who Sits in Front) and Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man), reflect his profound contributions to awakening, nurturing, and strengthening the spirit in all Peoples.

Yesterday, Elder Dr. Dave Courchene and his Vision of Turtle Lodge were honored at two simultaneous events.

Hundreds gathered at the Turtle Lodge for a tribute, while Governor General Mary

Yesterday, Elder Dr. Dave Courchene and his Vision of Turtle Lodge were honored at two simultaneous events.

Hundreds gathered at the Turtle Lodge for a tribute, while Governor General Mary Simon hosted a separate event in his honor at Rideau Hall.