SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 9, 2026WIIGWAASI JIIMAANKE
BIRCHBARK CANOE BUILD
9AM–4PM MONDAY TO FRIDAYRIVER MILL PARK HUNTSVILLE ONTARIOCANOE AS SPIRIT
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CANOE AS SPIRIT ✦
Hope Arises is thrilled to present Wiigwaasi Jiimaanke, a traditional birchbark canoe build in River Mill Park, Huntsville, Ontario. This cultural immersive bark-to-birthing experience is led by Indigenous master canoe builder Chuck Commanda.
RECLAMATION TO RECONCILIATION
Chuck Commanda is Algonquin from Kitigan Zibi First Nation and who learned the craft from his grandparents. Chuck describes every build as "a ceremony, and Wiigwaasi Jiimaanke, a symbol of renewal, reconciliation, pride and forgiveness."
A birthing ceremony will take place on Oct. 9 at 10:00 AM. Wiigwaasi Jiimaanke will be birthed into the waters of the Muskoka River in Huntsville, Ontario.
Our two-week educational build is an opportunity for you to participate in community and learn about the history and sacred relationship of canoes to Indigenous people.
SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 9, 2026CANOE AS SPIRIT
9AM–4PM MONDAY TO FRIDAY
RIVER MILL PARK HUNTSVILLE ONTARIOWe invite you to attend this cultural immersive experience to learn about the Indigenous history of canoes and their sacred and spiritual significance.
The event is free, and everyone is welcome.
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