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Gibimishkaadimin

A Project of Reconciliation

Gibimishkaadimin – An Indigenous word representing “paddling together by boat” – is the name for the journey of reconciliation, engaging Indigenous youth from across Canada, and non-Indigenous youth from southern and eastern Ontario. The trip includes collaborative and experiential learning through an Indigenous perspective. Gibimishkaadimin seeks to provide youth with the opportunity to foster relationships with each other and the land on a canoe trip in northern Ontario. Gibimishkaadimin is directed by a seven-person Board, the majority of whom are Indigenous.

In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada called on the United Church of Canada to ensure that all institutions, policies, programs and practices both comply with and implement the principles identified in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Gibimishkaadimin is one of the many ways to respond to and realize this call.

Gibimishkaadimin is a youth project of truth and reconciliation within The United Church of Canada in a partnership between the National Indigenous Council and General Council. It is funded from a bequest from Helen Ricker, donations from Bloor Street, Fairlawn and Rosedale United Churches, Indigenous Ministries & Justice, the United Church, Toronto United Church Council, Shining Waters Region, and individual donors.

Anchor-Goals

Model for the Project of Reconciliation

Youth are integral to the journey towards reconciliation. Each year, Gibimishkaadimin will welcome 10 Indigenous Youth and 10 non-Indigenous youth to join together to build relationships, leadership skills, and increase their knowledge of Indigenous cultures, histories, and ways of engaging with the land.

Over the course of the trip, youth will participate in trip preparations, a multi-day paddling journey, and end in post-trip reflection. The youth will be joined by experienced outfitter guides, program leaders and Elders.

Following the trip, Gibimishkaadimin will support each youth to create a journey of reconciliation to share their learning and engage others in the goals of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.