
March 22, 2018 · 0 Comments
The Dufferin County Cultural Resource Circle (DCCRC) says it plans to install a traditional medicine wheel garden in Orangeville’s Bravery Park, in collaboration with the Bravery Park Committee and the Town of Orangeville.
A traditional ground blessing ceremony was held at the Alder Parklands site last fall, in the presence of local dignitaries and DCCRC membership, conducted by Elder Shelly Charles.
The DCCRC is looking for corporate sponsors or patrons to fund the four garden quadrants. Initial funds will be used to purchase materials for the accessible pathway, a stone bench, edging, soil, interpretive signage with Anishnawbe teachings in English/Ojibway and native plants that are sacred and medicinal.
The DCCRC will maintain the garden and comply with sacred planting protocols, under the supervision of elders and a First Nations volunteer professional gardener. Orangeville Parks and Recreation will provide the initial preparation of the site, levelling and relocating rocks and trees as per the First Nation protocols.
The medicine wheel garden will be a healing, peaceful place of reflection and contemplation for all soldiers and veterans and their families. It will also promote environmental and cultural education and foster community engagement, in particular, engagement between indigenous and non-indigenous cultures. Anyone interested in becoming a patron or sponsor of one of the garden quadrants should contact the DCCRC at DCCRCBoard@gmail.com.