The Branches is located on Indigenous territory, the original caretakers of which are the Neutral, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee peoples. The Branches is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land promised to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. We offer our respect, recognition, and thanks for the opportunity to live, work and practice on this land today.
We believe it’s important to recognize both historical and present-day injustice, and the enduring presence of Indigenous people and culture in our region. It is vital that we know and honour the history of this land to inform and enrich our shared cultural understanding.
We consider the practice of yoga a stepping stone to meaningful action, and as settler people on this land we commit ourselves to solidarity with Indigenous peoples, amplification of Indigenous voices, LandBack actions and the realization of true reconciliation.
We endeavour to be accountable to this statement and we welcome feedback and critique on our efforts.
More information, resources, and opportunities to act:
LOCAL CONNECTIONS
- O:se Kenhionhata:tie - LandBack Camp (Kitchener-Waterloo area) is working towards access to land for Indigenous People for gathering and ceremonial purposes.
- The Healing of the Seven Generations provides support to First Peoples who have been impacted by the residential school system.
- Wisahkotewinowak is an urgan Indigenous garden collective who research, learn, teach, grow and share food, to deepen land-based relationships.
- The Woodland Cultural Centre preserves and educates on the history, culture, language and art of the Haudenosaunee people of the Eastern Woodlands.
- University of Waterloo & Wilfrid Laurier University both have Indigenous Centres that provide resources and support to students, staff, and faculty. They also run events, offer programming and coordinate with community partners.
READING
"Living on Stolen Land" Learn about the history of the Haldimand Tract, what it is to be a settler, and the ways that colonialism, environmental degradation and our economic system interact.
HOW WE'RE ENGAGING
"Acknowledging the Land We Practice On" Read about the process of writing our own land acknowledgement.
"These Schools are Our Holocaust" Read about our community's 2016 visit to the Woodland Cultural Centre and the former Mohawk Residential School.