Thursday, July 23, 2026
The Anishinabek Nation hosts the second annual Water Gathering: Gchi-Gami Maamwi Nweshkdaading Nibi Onji (Great Lakes Gathering – For the Sake of Water) to bring together First Nation leaders, Elders, youth, Knowledge Holders, water practitioners, researchers, and partners from across the Great Lakes region to advance Nibi (water) protection through the sharing of Indigenous knowledge, Western science, and collaborative action.
“Chi-miigwech to our Anishinabek First Nations leaders, citizens, and key partners for gathering together this week to share knowledge, explore diverse perspectives, and build respectful relationships that advance our shared commitment to support and protect Nibi for future generations,” said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige. “Nibi is life — it sustains our people, lands and ecosystems, cultures, and future generations. The Water Gathering creates opportunities for participants to learn from one another, strengthen relationships and create new ones, and discuss pressing water issues affecting Anishinabek First Nations and the broader Great Lakes watershed.”
The three-day Gathering will feature Sunrise Ceremonies, presentations from Indigenous and technical experts, youth and Elders panels, and discussions on climate change, environmental monitoring, source water protection, fisheries stewardship, and Great Lakes governance. Participants will also have opportunities to connect through networking, cultural demonstrations, and community dialogue.
Additionally, the Gathering will honour the contributions of the Anishinabek Nation Women’s Water Commission and the Chief Water Commissioners, while recognizing the next chapter in water governance within the Anishinabek Nation, and will also hold a Water Walk and Water Ceremony.
Established in 2007, the Women’s Water Commission provided leadership on water protection and Great Lakes issues. Grandmother Josephine Mandamin-baa led the Commission until 2019, raising awareness of the importance of protecting the Great Lakes and leading the Traditional Naming of Water Bodies within the Anishinabek Nation project. In 2019, Autumn Peltier was appointed to the role of Chief Water Commissioner, where she continued to advocate for clean water and First Nation water rights until the end of her term in 2024.
Featured image: Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige shares opening remarks on Day 1 of the second annual Anishinabek Nation Water Gathering: Gchi-Gami Maamwi Nweshkdaading Nibi Onji (Great Lakes Gathering – For the Sake of Water) in Aamjiwnaang First Nation. (Laura Barrios)
