Stag Special

Four tipis are now ready for use in Indigenous education programs and events at CFB Shilo.
The tipis were acquired in late 2022 from Corinne and John Belanger from Cree Star Gifts, but had to receive its initial teachings before they could be used for future events and activities.
These teachings were conducted May 18 adjacent to L25, with a sacred fire and a pipe ceremony. After this initial ceremony, the tipis can now be used for activities planned for the four-day CFB Shilo’s Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW) starting May 23.
There will be a tipi raising competition and education on Indigenous culture, such as moccasin games and the meaning of ribbon skirts. The week of activities will end with dancing and a feast. All activities will be open to the public.
The tipi represents more than just shelter from the elements. It is home, safety, community and a dwelling. All parts of a tipi have meaning.
For example, the circular shape embodies the earth and the Mother; the lodge cover represents the sky. The poles connect the earth to the sky and provide trails along which the peoples’ prayers might reach the heavens. The opening faces east to honour the rising sun and away from the prevailing winds.

It was a hive of activity for more than four hours adjacent to L25, when soldiers and civilians combined to build four tipis. The first tipi went up as an example for those who would work on the other three tipis. Mother Nature co-operated with the tipi building, ending the drizzle falling from the sky during a sacred fire and pipe ceremony. Photos Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag