On January 9, 2013, First Nation Anishnabe Elder Dave Courchene of Turtle Lodge delivered a statement at the Elders Ceremony in

On January 9, 2013, First Nation Anishnabe Elder Dave Courchene of Turtle Lodge delivered a statement at the Elders Ceremony in Ottawa. This address was published the following day.

Known as Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man), Elder Courchene is a respected teacher devoted to Indigenous knowledge. Since 1992, he has served as a UN Wisdom Keeper, advising on spirituality and sustainable environmental approaches.

Courchene founded Turtle Lodge in 2002, an internationally recognized center for learning, healing, and sharing. He continues to promote peace, recently sharing the stage with the Dalai Lama. Further details are available here.

This recording features Elder Dr. Dave Courchene (Nii Gaani Aki Innini), a respected Anishinaabe Elder and Knowledge Keeper. He shares Indigenous knowledge, promoting hope, peace, and

This recording features Elder Dr. Dave Courchene (Nii Gaani Aki Innini), a respected Anishinaabe Elder and Knowledge Keeper. He shares Indigenous knowledge, promoting hope, peace, and environmental stewardship. In 2002, he founded the internationally recognized Turtle Lodge International Centre for Indigenous Education and Wellness, a vital gathering place for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

In this video, Elder Courchene discusses forming deeper connections to the land, followed by a Q&A session.

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