A Good Neighbor to the Michipicoten First Nation

Across the country, we recognize the importance of being a good neighbour and an active partner in our communities. In early 2013, when elders from the Michipicoten First Nation approached us with concerns that Medicine Cave, a sacred site located on our lands, was at risk, we knew we had to act. Located at the confluence of the Magpie and Michipicoten Rivers, near Wawa, ON, the land is home to Medicine Cave, a spiritual site and place of healing of the Ojibway People.

After sitting down with the Michipicoten People to understand their concerns about the incompatible nature of activities taking place at this sacred site, we explored how best to ensure its ongoing preservation and respectful use. Focused on finding the most sustainable, long-term solution, we began the process to transfer 4.4 hectares of land to the First Nation to reunite the Michipicoten People with the sacred site they had used for thousands of years.

In August 2018, the Michipicoten Chief and Council, alongside Evolugen, hosted a ceremony and community feast to commemorate the historical land transfer and celebrated with elders and youth from the First Nation, members of the local community and members of the Evolugen team.