LAND-BASED CULTURE CAMP CONNECTS YOUTH TO TRADITION AND NATURE

Thompson Island Cultural Camp came alive with the energy of Akwesasró:non youth as they paddled, explored, and learned together during the Land-Based Culture Camp. Held from August 25–29, the camp featured five days of adventure, cultural teachings, and land-based learning.

The week began with a mini basket-making workshop led by Angelo Johnson of Good Mind Design, with the help of Eric Sunday. Youth crafted their own baskets to use throughout the week as they learned about the Ohenton Karihwatehkwen (Words Before All Else). Each basket served as a reminder of gratitude, allowing participants to collect elements they were thankful for.

Midweek featured Water Safety Day with support from Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service Nathan Thompson, S.A.V.E. Team officers Trent McDonald and Kyle Latour. OPP Provincial Liaison Team members Michel Brisson, Wendi Hughes, Jamie O’dell, and Pete Thorne. SDG OPP Marine Unit Tyler Johnson. Cornwall Police Services Casey Macgregor and Travis Bergeron. And RCMP members Corporal Linden Green, JP Metivier, Warren Graham, and Alan Murillo. Special thanks to Ontario Provincial Police - East Region for their involvement. Annie Cree from the Iakwa'shatste Youth Fitness Program and Cullen Jacobs from MCA’s Health Promotion & Prevention Program also led kayak and canoe safety activities.

On Thursday, youth created corn husk flowers with Iahwentas while learning Kanien’kéha words related to their craft. They also took part in land mapping with Annie, Cullen, and Iakwa'shatste Youth Fitness Program member Tristan Thomas. A scavenger hunt organized by Traditional Support Workers Maya Swamp and Tekaronhiakwas McDonald. These activities helped deepen their understanding of the Ohenton Karihwatehkwen through exploration, recitation, and discussion.

The camp closed with a canoe journey led by the Land-Based Healing Program. Supervisor Brandon David and Land-Based Worker Ashley Martin guided youth on the water, sharing teachings about reconnecting with the land and the healing power of water.

The week was made even more meaningful thanks to the support of Thompson Island staff Norman, Jessica, Mike, and Arnold for daily transportation, as well as the talented cooks Marie, Oddesy, and Wanitanoron, who provided delicious meals each day.

Niawenhkó:wa to everyone who helped make this year’s Land-Based Culture Camp a meaningful success, giving Akwesasró:non youth a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen their connection to the land and culture.