Reclaiming sacred space, expanding the circle

It started with a vision when Christine Cyr, Associate Vice-President (Indigenous), felt it was time to create a beautiful space near Migizii Agamik—one where students could connect with culture and engage in ceremonies.

Nestled behind Migizii Agamik — Bald Eagle Lodge is reclaimed land that has been carefully transformed into a sacred and special space, expanding the circle on the UM Fort Garry Campus.

Intentional design in every element

The ceremony site is wrapped by a privacy screen and, though practical, the significance is found in the details. The privacy screen has a shorter design and slight spaces between posts to show it is not meant to shut people out, but rather hold the space gently.

The angled posts are reminiscent of the Métis sash and take after veining seen in feathers and nature, depicting a circular flow moving in a clockwise direction—a feature that is symbolic and rooted in teachings. The wood is cedar, each post capped with a rounded top.

The woodshed was built using reclaimed wood from campus and has its own special details on the door. The circular design echoes teachings, while the triangle nods to the tipi that is raised at Migizii Agamik.

Traditional medicines are planted throughout, decorating the space with healing elements and connecting visitors to the land.

Everyone is welcome to join in Sweat Lodge ceremonies.

Exterior of a building showing a smaller wooden structre in an outdoor space

Sweat Lodge ceremony space behind Migizii Agamik

Honouring the 13 Grandmother Moons

Thirteen circular medallions adorn the privacy screen, representing the 13 Grandmother Moons. Each medallion was creatively and thoughtfully designed by Vanessa Lillie, Director of Cultural Integration (Indigenous), in collaboration with Dani Kastelein at Brook McIlroy Inc., to express teachings and to be representative of local Indigenous communities.

The medallions aren’t just art, they are learning tools. Displayed on both sides of the privacy screen, the medallions are visible from within the space and to those passing by. Their placement and design invite conversation, reflection and teaching. From certain angles, the copper plate backing shimmers through, a creative reminder of copper teachings.

green space with building in the background

Ceremony and community

Last year, Sweat Lodge ceremonies were held here regularly, with up to two each month and about 30 people taking part in every ceremony.

Sweat Lodge Preparation Sessions are also hosted regularly and are intended for people to learn more about the lodge, the ceremony and how to prepare to attend your first ceremony.

Everyone is welcome to join in Sweat Lodge ceremonies.

Sweat Lodge ceremony space behind Migizii Agamik

cedar fence with round, silver medallion

Caregivers for the space and each other

This is a space that holds spirit and it is meant for visiting, healing and learning. This space is cared for and protected, just as it does for its visitors and caregivers.

From the medicine roots growing below, the land that holds us, the Sweat Lodge that heals and the teachings shared from different nations. Every element has been designed with care, thoughtfulness and intention, each carrying significance.

From those who walked before us

The Sweat Lodge ceremonial space is a space where ancestors are felt, where traditional teachings are shared. While it came after the creation of Migizii Agamik — Bald Eagle Lodge, the Elders and changemakers that advocated for reclamation of these spaces are all a part of this story.

Read the series of articles about the creation of Migizii Agamik — Bald Eagle Lodge. Visit the Indigenous Events Calendar for the full schedule of Sweat Lodge Preparation Sessions and Ceremonies.

Shaded space to sit and visit

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