Larry Laviolette reflects at the Healing Circle with spouse Karin Laviolette. Grant Deme photo
Dozens gathered during Sunday’s ceremony at Last Duel Park in Perth, where the unveiling of the new name for the Indigenous ceremony space occurred, during National Indigenous Veterans Day.
It is now called, “Ka Ije Mino Negockedadiik,” which means “Where We Gather in a Good Way,” in Ojibwe. The area includes the Indigenous Healing Circle, Medicine Garden and National Healing Forest.
The naming effort was spearheaded by Lanark County Neighbours for Truth and Reconciliation.
Town of Perth dignitaries were on hand, including outgoing Mayor Judy Brown, who made remarks during her last official duties.
Local veteran Larry Laviolette has a long history of family members who fought for Canada, and it’s extended to the next generation.
Laviolette’s service included stops in Canada and overseas. He had family members fighting in both world wars, as well as Korea and Japan.
An estimated 12,000 First Nations fought for Canada across the 20th century, with 500 making the ultimate sacrifice.
Members of the Royal Canadian Air Force spoke Cree at times, in order to get their messages across without fear of enemy interception.
In some instances, Indigenous members came home to their reserve expropriated, and promises made under the Canadian Soldier Settlement Act were not kept. This happened to Laviolette’s grandfather.
Sunday’s ceremony featured tobacco offerings and songs, as well as thanks to the Creator and all living beings.
Hear the full interview below.
Story by Grant Deme