(Image from United Way of Bruce Grey website.)
The Giche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden Project Committee is launching a campaign geared towards awareness and funds for the completion of the garden at Kelso Beach Park.
A release notes the campaign titled, Reconciliation: We are Beautiful Together, will work to support the garden situated near the site of the original Nawash Village.
The campaign started on National Indigenous Peoples Day and will run over the summer, ending on Sept. 21. It includes a goal of $50,000 for the completion of the Giche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden, and other events at Kelso Park.
The campaign will end with the installation of the Nookomis Giche Name’ K’we sculpture and celebration in late September.
Committee Chairperson Susan Staves Schank says reconciliation is about renewing a friendship between Indigenous and Settler people in the region.
“We are building the Reconciliation Garden as a place of learning, truth, healing and sharing. Indigenous culture, history and tradition is visible and accessible for everyone.” says Staves Schank. “This campaign will connect us all and allow for the completion of the Garden this summer. We have already seen how important it is to have a place for people to grieve for the children who died at residential schools, recover from the trauma and pain, and build a different future.”
Staves notes they have been receiving support from the City of Owen Sound and various organizations, businesses, and community donations.
“The Giche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden is a very special and important place of reflection and learning for all peoples in our region. We are thankful for all the support,” says Staves Schank.
Donations to the campaign can be made through the United Way Bruce Grey website.