Page 29 - Georgina Island

WATER WALKERS
An Anishinaabe water walk has
become a spiritual practice of
connection to the water. Our
lakes, streams, and rivers are under
increasing threat from pollution
and development. The water walk
connects all of us spiritually to the
waters that allow us to live. It is a
time for us to pray for the health
and well-being of all the waters.
Women take turns carrying a copper
kettle full of water and are joined
by a man carrying an eagle feather
staff; a woman carries the feather
if a man is unavailable. The water
walkers pray and give thanks for
the life-giving water. It is a chance
for us to thank water and recognize
all she does for us. It is a way to
show our responsibility to take care
of the water. The water responds
to us with a feeling of love. The
Anishinaabeg love water, honour
water, and care for water.
Miigwetch.

WORDS TO KNOW
miigwetch (me-gwet-ch):
thank you

Georgina Island First Nation 27

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