The Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON), the collective of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation and the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation, will embark on a twelve-day Water Walk through their Territory from May 22 to June 2, 2017.

The Walk will begin Monday May 22 at Noojimowaaning, the "Place of Healing" and travel the perimeter of SON Territory. SON's Traditional Territory extends east from Lake Huron to the Nottawasaga River and south from the tip of the Bruce Peninsula to the Maitland River system (11 miles south of Goderich). On Friday June 2, the Walk will conclude with a celebratory feast at Noojimowaaning.

Covering over 700km, this ceremonial journey will bring Walkers through many areas of cultural significance for the SON People. Walkers envision the Walk as "a prayerful journey of the People to uplift the Spirit of the Water and to maintain our relationship and responsibility to our First Mother, Shkikima Kwe and all that She sustains."

The SON Water Walkers will cross paths with Grandmother Josephine Mandamin and the 2017 For the Earth and Water Walk. The SON Water Walkers will offer Grandmother Josephine tobacco and ask her to participate in a pipe ceremony at a sacred burial site.

Community members of Bruce, Grey, Huron, Simcoe, and Wellington Counties are welcome to show their support by sponsoring a meal, providing camping space, or walking alongside the SON People.

If you would like to participate or learn more about this ceremonial journey, please contact Brittany Jones, Community Engagement Coordinator at [email protected]