Guiding Principles
We apply principles from Mino Pimadazawin, Two Row Wampum, Dish with One Spoon, The Seven Grandfather Teachings, and Indigenous Knowledges.
Mino Pimadazawin programming provides early intervention to child witnesses of violence against women so that they may heal from the harmful effects of witnessing violence and thus avoid the later need for more intensive supports to live a safe and well-balanced life.
Two Row wampum is a living treaty shown in the purple rows running the length of a wampum belt. “In one row is a ship with our White Brothers’ ways: in the other a canoe with our Indigenous ways. Each will travel down the river of life side by side. Neither will attempt to steer the other’s vessel.” The treaty establishes living together in peace; that each nation will respect the ways of the other as they meet to discuss solutions to the issues that come before them.
Dish with One Spoon refers to a form of a treaty. The “dish” represents the land that is to be shared peacefully and the “spoon” represents the individuals living on and using the resources of the land in a spirit of mutual co-operation.
Indigenous knowledges, guided by natural laws and Indigenous protocols is the source of our ways of life and the lead facilitator for all healing.
The Seven Grandfather Teachings are guiding principles of human conduct toward others and the land.
- Bravery (Bear) is the state of having a fearless heart. To do what is right even when the consequences are unpleasant and continue living life in the face of fears.
- Honesty (Raven) in facing a situation in word and action is to be brave. Be honest first with yourself, and you will more easily be able to be honest with others.
- Humility (Wolf) is to compassionately know you and others are equally a sacred part of Creation.
- Love (Eagle) is to know peace and love unconditionally.
- Respect (Buffalo) is the foundation for the relationship humans have with each other and honouring all that we do, and what the land does for us.
- Wisdom (Beaver) enables one to know and respect personal and others’ boundaries.
- Truth (Turtle) is to speak truthfully from the source of the Grandfather Teachings.