Gibimishkaadimin
A Project of Reconciliation
Gibimishkaadimin – An Indigenous word representing “paddling together by boat” – is the name for the journey of reconciliation, engaging Indigenous and Non-Indigenous youth from across Canada. 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 summer canoe trip in Temagami, Ontario.
In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada called upon institutions, policies, programs and practices to 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 in partnership with Sandy-Saulteaux Spiritual Centre. The founding organizations include Shining Waters Region, the Toronto United Church Council, with donations from Bloor Street, Fairlawn and Rosedale United Churches, Indigenous groups, and individual donors.
Model for the Project of Reconciliation
Youth are integral to the journey towards reconciliation. Each year, Gibimishkaadimin welcomes Indigenous Youth and 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.
More on Truth & Reconciliation
Goals for the Project of Reconciliation
The goals of Gibimishkaadimin are:
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foster reconciliation between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples,
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enhance the knowledge of Indigenous issues and culture,
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connect participants with the land,
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change stereotypical attitudes,
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build respect for others and self,
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create opportunities of mutual learning,
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develop leadership skills in the truth and reconciliation process to enable the youth to lead their communities towards reconciliation,
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provide a life-changing experience and establish lasting friendships
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Land Acknowledgement
As we gather from across Canada to paddle on Lake Temagami, we acknowledge this sacred land, the traditional lands of many Indigenous people. We are mindful of the broken covenants and the need to strive to make right with all our relations.