The Chiefs of Ontario hosted a Great Lakes Gathering on September 16-17, 2026 in Huntsville, Ontario.
The Gathering was rooted in the theme of confluence — where the waters, knowledge systems, generations, and communities come together. Confluence speaks to the meeting places of rivers and lakes. First Nations have traversed these landscape for millennia and understand the importance of these locations of intersection.
This event created a space for youth, Elders, and community members to gather and share dialogue, land-based activities, and teachings. Grounded in the principles of Two-Row, ethical space, and the One Dish One Spoon teachings, the gathering will explore collective responsibilities to water, climate action, and future generations while strengthening connections across communities and territories.
Date: September 16-17, 2026
Location: Hidden Valley Resort in Muskoka, 1755 Valley Rd, Huntsville ON P1H 1A8
For more information about the gathering, and to view the agenda, visit: Great Lakes Gathering: Confluence
Presentations from the Gathering can be accessed below:
The Rights of Nature – International Observatory of Nature’s Rights
Yenny Vega Cárdenas, Inès Benadda
Georgian Bay Biosphere – Anishinaabek Youth
Kyla Judge
Pane gii-giigoohnkewag Anishinaabeg – The Anishinaabeg always fished.
Deborah Pine PhD (C) University of Guelph
When Waters Converge – Indigenous Climate Action
Michelle Yanes, Carole Monture
National Water Security, Canada Water Act Modernization and New Legislation
Kelly Black
