Diane's presentation
During this gathering, participants deepened their understanding of Indigenous cultures alongside Diane Montreuil, Knowledge Keeper, artist, educator, and member of the Métis Nation of Canada’s National Council. Through the tobacco protocol, the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers, and a hands-on creative workshop, she shared knowledge rooted in respect, transmission, and practice.
The tobacco is placed at the center of the cloth.
This gesture marks the beginning of the protocol and reflects the intention with which the request is made.
The cloth is gently folded around the tobacco.
This movement brings the elements together and represents care, respect, and mindfulness.
The bundle is tied to complete the offering.
This moment seals the intention and prepares the tobacco to be offered in a spirit of gratitude and respect.
The Tobacco Protocol: A Gesture of Respect
The tobacco protocol is a fundamental practice in many First Nations and Métis communities. It is used when requesting guidance, teachings, or the presence of a Knowledge Keeper. During this event, the protocol marked the opening of the gathering and established a relationship grounded in intention, respect, and gratitude.
Tobacco is recognized as the first of the four sacred medicines and symbolizes beginnings, listening, and acknowledgment of the knowledge being shared. Offering tobacco is a way of honouring the time, experience, and teachings passed on by the Knowledge Keeper.
Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers
The teachings of the Seven Grandfathers convey foundational values that guide relationships with oneself, others, and the world. During this gathering, Diane Montreuil shared these teachings through storytelling, discussion, and reflection, allowing participants to explore their meaning and contemporary relevance.
Centered on principles such as respect, humility, honesty, wisdom, love, courage, and truth, these teachings were presented as living values passed down through generations. This portion of the event created a space for listening, dialogue, and thoughtful engagement with Indigenous ways of knowing.
Bracelet-Making Workshop
The gathering continued with an interactive bracelet-making workshop.
This hands-on activity invited participants to engage with the teachings through creativity, encouraging learning through practice, exchange, and shared experience.
We would like to sincerely thank Diane Montreuil for sharing her knowledge and for guiding us through such a meaningful and enriching experience. We also extend our thanks to the Centre de recherches en éducation franco-ontarienne (CREFO) for funding this event.
Miigwetch!
Check out Diane's website!