One of the very first projects the coalition embarked on was a 4 day sacred fire to start off in a good way, grounded in ceremony and the teachings of elders, and creating a welcoming, accessible space for the community to gather.
The spirit of the Ishkode on the corner of Chipman and 1st st. was a time to hear from the community what was needed. Note takers sat by the fire 24 hours of the day, chatting with those that warmed by the fireside at all hours.
Some who came by rolled up with donuts, coffee and firewood, others nested in the teepee, tended the fire all night or erected wind barriers with tarps. There was something magical in this space, in the conversations, in the support, in the sense of true community care. The spirit of this ishkode set in motion the heart, heat and passion that has been Kenora Moving Forward since.