Aanikoobajiganaanig bimikawe
“In the Steps of our Ancestors”
Through the revitalization of jiimaan canoe, technology, protocols, and ceremonies, contemporary Anishinaabe People, and their allies, will retrace the historic migration of our Ancestors, responding to the call of the 7th Fire Prophecy to go back along the trail to pick up what our Ancestors have left for us to find.
ABOUT THE JOURNEY
Beginning on the summer solstice (June 21, 2026), Anishinaabe (Ojibwe/Odawa/Potawatomi) and their allies will travel up the St Lawrence Seaway, following ancient trade routes throughout the Great Lakes.
The mission of the 7th Fire Jiimaan Journey is to:
-
Reawaken canoe culture and protocols throughout the Great Lakes by retracing the ancestral migration.
-
Strengthen Tribal Nationhood, traveling as united Indigenous Nations across Turtle Island
-
Increase awareness to protect the waterways of the Great Lakes
Chi miigwech to our sponsors, supporters, and mentors. It truly is an honor to be a part of something so empowering, and in turn, to inspire and strengthen others in this journey.
"More than a physical voyage, it is a spiritual and cultural commitment to remember who we are and to honor the wisdom of those who came before us."
Last week a small group of us, 5 being Anishinaabekwewag women, gathered at High Cliff SP to complete a Voyageur Canoe/ Wilderness Trip Leader Certification. Presented by NOW Outdoors and ORCKA (Ontario Recreational Canoeing & Kayaking Association), our objective was to be competent in Chi jiimaan safety, theory, and skills over a 5 day intensive course on Lake Winnebago, Long Lake, and Lake Michigan.
We did it! After 5 days of intensive training on Lake Winnebago, Long Lake, and the glorious Lake Michigan, 7 of us, including these 5 Anishinaabekwewag, have achieved level 3 certification in Voyageur Canoe Navigation.