WIRIWG to host screenings on Indigenous-led Grand River events

Paddlers take part in the annual Two Row on the Grand canoe journey, which promotes mutual respect and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants. The event is one of two documentaries being screened by the Wilmot Indigenous Relations Interfaith Working Group on April 23. (tworowonthegrand.com photo)

Amanda Nelson, Echo Contributor

The Wilmot Indigenous Relations Interfaith Working Group (WIRIWG) is hosting an evening focused on two local, annual Indigenous-led water events on April 23 at Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg, at 7 p.m.

Screenings of the documentaries Two Row on the Grand and The All Nations Grand River Water Walk aim to educate through video and guest speakers.

“We aim to teach people how to build relationships of respect, equality and fairness,” said Melissa Miller, communications officer with WIRIWG. “It’s also about honouring the Grand River and everything it means to Waterloo Region, as well as remembering our history and our current relationship with the Grand River and its peoples.”

The first screening, Two Row on the Grand, explores the embodiment of the Two Row Wampum — the original peace treaty between Indigenous and settler communities.

The paddle is an annual canoe trip where participants, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, build mutual respect and understanding of individual values and cultures by sharing the river, meals, campgrounds, mutual aid, cultural and environmental teachings, friendship and summer fun.

“It’s based on the idea of the Two Row Wampum, which is an early treaty made among Indigenous peoples in the Waterloo Region and beyond about how people would live together in peace,” Miller said.

“When the Dutch and English later came into the area, they became signatories to that treaty, along with the Crown. We’re all part of the Two Row Wampum Treaty, which means we each have our own boats — our own canoes — and we paddle alongside one another. I don’t interfere with your progress, and you don’t interfere with mine. We travel side by side.”

The second screening, The All Nations Grand River Water Walk, highlights an Anishinaabe ceremony based on the teachings of the late Josephine Mandamin, who walked around the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River carrying a copper pail of water in one hand and an eagle staff in the other. She brought global attention to the sacredness and value of water.

The screenings, along with guest speaker presentations, aim to educate non-Indigenous people about truth and reconciliation, foster relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents, and promote learning.

All are welcome, especially those interested in learning more about the Grand River from Indigenous perspectives, past and present.

There is no fee to attend; however, donations are gratefully accepted to support WIRIWG’s work.