Aanii Boozhoo - Welcome!

When we walk for Nibi (the water), we are in Ceremony. We move like water, continuously each day, until we reach our destination. This is a time for prayers or songs for the water. 

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Core walkers carry the pail and staff for the duration of the water walk and made this commitment earlier this year. Community walkers follow behind for hours, a day or even several days.

 

All walkers follow the protocols established by Josephine-Baa Mandamin to show respect for our ancestors, grandmothers, Mother Earth and ourselves:

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• Long skirts or pants and shirts with sleeves are worn during the water walk.

• Drugs and alcohol are not permitted. 

• Each person carries Asemaa (tobacco) to offer to any flowing streams or rivers they cross. 

• Asemaa is also laid down for any dead animals or birds.

• Women on their moon-time (menstruating) are asked to pray for Nibi from home; they are already in ceremony.

• Men carry the eagle feather staff, but if there are no males in attendance, women may carry the staff.

• Always respect the territory we are traveling through.

• Remember why you are here. This walk is about Nibi (the water).

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The Grand River Water Walk will take place September 21 to 27, 2025 in leap-frog fashion. Cars will be used along the route to help support the walkers. Each day, the walk begins before 4:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony. Once the walking begins, a copper pail of water and "Little Boy" eagle feather staff are carried by a pair of core walkers for 300 to 500 metres. Once they reach this distance, they pass the pail and staff to another pair of core walkers (who are waiting by a car), then drive the waiting vehicle ahead and wait for their turn to carry the pail and staff again. Community walkers follow behind. In this fashion, the water and walkers flow continuously. At the end of each day of walking, there is a "touchdown" ceremony and community feast. 

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Women and men from all Nations are welcome to participate in the Grand River Water Walk. Please ensure you read the water walk protocols before arriving so that you know what to expect and how to prepare. There is no registration fee, but please bring a small handful of tobacco tied in a piece of red cloth. You will also need to cover your own expenses (such as gas, snacks, and lunch). Anyone who agrees to follow the protocols may participate — whether for a few hours or a full day. We encourage you to walk behind the core walkers or take part in the morning and afternoon ceremonies.