# Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road

> Community • Culture • Stewardship


## Pages

- [Booking Request Instructions](https://ifhr.ca/booking/): Please complete the form below to request use of the IFHR community space. Provide your contact information, the preferred date and time of your event, and a brief description of the activity you are planning. Once your request has been submitted, a member of the IFHR team will review the information and contact you to confirm whether the space is available. Please note that submitting the form does not guarantee a booking until it has been confirmed. Whenever possible, please submit your booking request at least 1 week in advance to allow time for scheduling and coordination.
- [Supporters & volunteers](https://ifhr.ca/supporters-volunteers/): companies and/or organizations Volunteers
- [Surrounding Community](https://ifhr.ca/surrounding-community/): The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road and the Mushkeeki Gitigan is located in Southwestern Ontario. While Southwestern Ontario is a vast territory. London is surrounded by three First Nations communities: Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewa of the Thames and Muncey-Delaware Nation. The Metis peoples of Ontario also reside in the Southwestern Ontario region. Muncey-Delaware First Nation Reserve No. 1 Munsee-Delaware also call themselves Lenni Lenape and are one of several subgroups of Delaware, the Unalachtigo, the Unami, and the Minisink; later known as the Munsee.  The Munsee-Delaware settled along the Thames River in the late 1700’s at the close […]
- [Tobacco](https://ifhr.ca/tobacco/): Traditional people say that tobacco is always first. It is used as an offering for everything and in every ceremony. “Always through smoking,” the saying goes. Traditional tobacco was given to us so that we can communicate with the spirit world. It opens up the door to allow that communication to take place. When we make an offering of tobacco, we communicate our thoughts and feelings through the tobacco as we pray for ourselves, our family, relatives, and others. Tobacco has a unique relationship with other plants: it is said to be the primary activator of all the plant spirits. […]
- [Sage](https://ifhr.ca/sage/): There are two types of sage, each with its own distinct qualities and uses. Smoke from white sage (Artemesia califoncia) is used for purification of mind, body and spirit and sacred articles in advance of prayers and ceremonies. White sage is burned for meditation, smudging and cleansing of spirit and dwelling. In some beliefs, white sage smoke is believed to provide a barrier that prevents negative spirits from entering the room in which the ceremony is being held. Desert sage (Salvia apiana) has been revered by First Peoples for its medicinal attributes long before the study of microbiology entered the […]
- [Sweetgrass](https://ifhr.ca/sweetgrass/): Sweetgrass is one of the main herbs used by Native people. It is often part of the medicine used when smudging along with sage and cedar . Just as sage is used to clear negativity, to cleanse, sweetgrass is used to bring positivity. At the healing circle I attend, we often start the circle by smudging using sage. As circles tend to be heavy (lots of trauma is shared), if we use sweetgrass, we use it at the end of the circle. To cleanse ourselves again and to bring back positivity and calm. Therefore, sweetgrass represents positivity, strength, connection to […]
- [Cedar](https://ifhr.ca/cedar/): Western Red Cedar (and to a lesser extent Yellow Cedar), which feature in ceremonies in the Pacific Northwest, belong to the Cypress family, whereas in the eastern provinces, members of the Juniper family, which have similar characteristics, are used for ceremonies. As with sweetgrass, cedar is burned during prayers so the smoke will carry the prayers to the Creator. In some First Nations, cedar boughs and sage are mixed together and spread on the floors of sweat lodges. Cedar is also burned to drive out negative energies and usher in positive energies, and cedar boughs are waved to purify homes. […]
- [The Four Sacred Medicines](https://ifhr.ca/voice-of-the-elders-the-medicine-wheel/): Tobacco is the first plant that the Creator gave to First Nations Peoples. It is the main activator of all the plant spirits. Three other plants, sage, cedar and sweetgrass, follow tobacco, and together they are referred to as the Four Sacred Medicines. The Four Sacred Medicines are used in everyday life and in ceremonies. All of them can be used to smudge with, though sage, cedar and sweetgrass also have many other uses. It is said that tobacco sits in the eastern door, sweetgrass in the southern door, sage in the western door and cedar in the northern door. […]
- [Voice of the Elders - The Medicine Wheel](https://ifhr.ca/the-four-sacred-medicines/): medicine wheel You are the Medicine Wheel Right now you’re made of four different areas emotional spiritual mental and physical. You cannot exist if you take one of those areas is taken away, also if you’re not happy right now it’s because one of those areas is not getting attention. Physically if you not taking care of your body you will not be able to enjoy life is you are unhealthy. Emotionally if maybe you’re not sharing your emotions in a good and healthy way then you will not be happy even if you are in shape. Mentally they say […]
- [Voice of the Elders - The Seven Grandfather Teachings](https://ifhr.ca/voice-of-the-elders/): The Seven grandfathers According to Benton-Banai (1988), the Seven Grandfather Teachings form the foundation of an Indigenous way of life. Key concepts of respect and sharing are built into the Seven Grandfather Teachings. There are many versions of the Seven Grandfather Teachings. The following is a shortened version of the teachings as recounted by Benton-Banai (1988). According to Benton-Banai (1988), the Creator gave the seven grandfathers the responsibility to watch over the people. In this recounting of the story, the seven grandfathers, seeing that the people were living a hard life, sent a messenger down to the earth to find […]
- [Teachings](https://ifhr.ca/teachings/): Since time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples have served as the stewards of the land and thus carry vital wisdom shared through traditional teachings from one generation to the next. This wisdom, rooted in deep reverence for nature and interconnectedness, offers invaluable insights into living in harmony with Mother Earth and each other. It is through storytelling, ceremony and a profound connection to ancestral lands, Indigenous communities have preserved invaluable knowledge that respectfully engages and guides us towards a more sustainable present and future. Indigenous Ways of Knowing refers to the consciousness shared from generation to generation within each Indigenous community. It […]
- [members log-in](https://ifhr.ca/members-log-in-2/): The IFHR Member Portal provides access to member updates, newsletters, community resources, and opportunities to participate in the growth and direction of the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road.
- [FAQ](https://ifhr.ca/faq/): What is the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road? The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) is an Indigenous-led community organization based in London, Ontario. The organization works to support Indigenous youth, families, and community members through programs, community initiatives, cultural learning opportunities, and land-based activities. IFHR aims to create welcoming spaces where people can gather, build relationships, and strengthen community connections. What programs does IFHR offer? IFHR offers a range of programs and initiatives that support community connection and cultural learning. These programs include: • Mushkiki Gitigan Medicine Garden • Youth Programming • Community Programming • DUDES Club (partnership initiative) […]
- [News & Updates](https://ifhr.ca/news-updates/): Staying Connected The News & Updates section provides information about recent developments, announcements, and activities connected to the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road. This page will share updates about programs, community initiatives, partnerships, and events happening within the Hamilton Road neighbourhood and the broader London community. Community Announcements IFHR will share important announcements related to the organization and its programs. These updates may include information about upcoming events, new initiatives, partnerships, or opportunities for community members to participate in programs and activities. Community announcements help keep members, supporters, and partners informed about the ongoing work of the organization. Program Highlights […]
- [Testimonials](https://ifhr.ca/testimonials/): Community Voices The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road is built through relationships, collaboration, and the shared efforts of community members, partners, and supporters. Testimonials provide an opportunity for individuals and organizations to share their experiences working with IFHR and participating in community initiatives such as the Mushkeeki Gitigan Medicine Garden, youth programming, and community gatherings. These reflections help demonstrate the impact of community-based work and the importance of creating welcoming spaces where people can gather, learn, and support one another. Voices from the Community As IFHR continues to grow, this page will feature reflections from community members, partners, volunteers, and […]
- [Annual Report](https://ifhr.ca/annual-report/): Organizational Transparency The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road is committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of community resources. Annual reports provide an overview of the organization’s activities, progress, and financial stewardship during each year of operation. These reports help community members, partners, and supporters understand the work of IFHR and the impact of its programs and initiatives. What Our Annual Reports Include Annual reports may include information such as: • A summary of the organization’s activities and programs • Highlights from community initiatives and events • Updates on organizational development and partnerships • Financial summaries and stewardship information • […]
- [Staff](https://ifhr.ca/staff/): Organizational Leadership At this stage of development, the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road operates through the leadership of its Board of Directors, the Executive Director, and the support of dedicated volunteers. Together, these individuals help guide the direction of the organization, coordinate programs and initiatives, and support community engagement within the Hamilton Road neighbourhood. Executive Director The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors to help guide the development of IFHR programs, partnerships, and community initiatives. The Executive Director helps coordinate the organization’s work, support community relationships, and assist in the development of future programming connected to the […]
- [Board of Directors](https://ifhr.ca/board-of-directors/): Governance at IFHR The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road is guided by a Board of Directors who work collectively to support the mission and long-term development of the organization. The board provides governance, oversight, and strategic guidance while ensuring that the organization remains accountable to the community it serves. Rather than following a traditional hierarchical structure, IFHR has adopted a leadership model that reflects values of collaboration, shared responsibility, and collective decision-making. Collective Leadership IFHR’s governance structure recognizes that leadership is strongest when responsibilities are shared and decisions are made collaboratively. The board works together as a collective body to […]
- [Our Story](https://ifhr.ca/our-story/): The beginning The story of the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road began through community conversations and a shared recognition that Indigenous people living in the Hamilton Road neighbourhood would benefit from a welcoming space where culture, learning, and community relationships could grow. Many Indigenous community members living in urban environments seek opportunities to reconnect with culture, build relationships, and create spaces where Indigenous knowledge and community support can be shared openly. These early conversations laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road. The Medicine Garden One of the first initiatives connected to this vision […]
- [Etn Tags](https://ifhr.ca/etn-tags/)
- [Etn Category](https://ifhr.ca/etn_category/)
- [Youth Programming](https://ifhr.ca/youth-programming/): Program Overview Youth Programming at the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) creates opportunities for Indigenous youth to gather, learn, and strengthen their connection to culture, community, and identity. Through culturally grounded activities, mentorship, and community engagement, youth programs support young people in building confidence, relationships, and a sense of belonging within the Hamilton Road community. Why the Program Exists The Hamilton Road and East London area is home to one of the largest concentrations of Indigenous residents in the City of London. Community conversations and research have also identified the importance of safe and culturally grounded spaces where Indigenous […]
- [Wiidookaage Ikwe Program](https://ifhr.ca/wiidookaage-ikwe-program/): Program Overview The Wiidookaage Ikwe Program is an emerging initiative of the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) designed to support Indigenous women through transitional housing assistance and culturally grounded wraparound supports. The program aims to create a supportive environment where women can access stability, community connection, and opportunities for healing and growth while reconnecting with culture and community. Why the Program Exists Indigenous women continue to face significant social and structural challenges, many of which are rooted in the ongoing impacts of colonialism, displacement from traditional lands, and systemic barriers to housing and support services. Within the Hamilton Road […]
- [DUDES Club](https://ifhr.ca/dudes-club/): Program Overview The DUDES Club is a model for Indigenous men’s wellness promotion that focuses on building solidarity, brotherhood, and community connection among men. Through conversation, shared activities, and peer support, the program creates space for men to reconnect with culture, community, and their role within families and communities. The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) is exploring the development of a local DUDES Club in partnership with the broader DUDES Club model. Why the Program Exists Many Indigenous men continue to experience the impacts of historical colonialism, including displacement from traditional lands, loss of language and culture, and disruption […]
- [Community Programming](https://ifhr.ca/community-programming/): Program Overview Community Programming at the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) creates opportunities for Indigenous community members to gather, share knowledge, and strengthen relationships within the Hamilton Road neighbourhood. These programs are designed to support cultural connection, learning, and community wellbeing through gatherings, workshops, and community-led activities. Why the Program Exists The Hamilton Road and East London area is home to a significant Indigenous population and a strong sense of community. However, community research and conversations have also identified the need for culturally grounded spaces where people can gather, share knowledge, and support one another. Community Programming at IFHR […]
- [Babaamizi Gikinoo'amaadiwin Program](https://ifhr.ca/babaamizi-gikinooamaadiwin-program/): Program Overview The Babaamizi Gikinoo’amaadiwin Program is a learning initiative designed to support cultural competency, reconciliation education, and community understanding between Indigenous communities and the broader business community in London, Ontario. The program provides opportunities for businesses, organizations, and community members to learn about Indigenous histories, contemporary realities, and pathways toward meaningful relationships grounded in respect and understanding. Why the Program Exists Many people within the broader community want to support reconciliation but often feel uncertain about where to begin. There are still widespread gaps in understanding related to Indigenous history, treaties, residential schools, and the ongoing experiences of Indigenous […]
- [Mushkeeki Gitigan – Medicine Garden](https://ifhr.ca/mushkeeki-gitigan-medicine-garden/): Mushkeeki Gitigan, meaning “Medicine Garden,” is the flagship program of the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road. Established in 2018, the garden serves as a community space where Indigenous knowledge, land-based learning, and cultural teachings are shared with youth, families, and community members. Through the cultivation of traditional medicines and other culturally significant plants, the garden supports learning about Indigenous plant knowledge, harvesting protocols, and the cultural teachings connected to the land. It was a late summer’s evening walking with my partner and our dog. It was one of those cool evenings just beforesunset, it was the perfect light jacket weather. […]
- [Events](https://ifhr.ca/event-calender/): The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road hosts community gatherings, cultural teachings, and seasonal events throughout the year. These events provide opportunities for community members to connect, learn, and participate in Indigenous-led programming and celebrations. Upcoming Events National Indigenous Peoples Day – Solidarity day National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on June 21 and recognizes the cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. Community gatherings connected to this day may include cultural activities, food, and opportunities for community members to come together in celebration. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation National Truth and Reconciliation Day, […]
- [Donate](https://ifhr.ca/donate-today/): The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road is building spaces for community connection, cultural learning, and support for Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents in the Hamilton Road neighbourhood. Your support helps sustain programs, gatherings, and initiatives that strengthen relationships and create opportunities for community members to learn, grow, and support one another. Why Your Support Matters Community programs, youth engagement, and cultural initiatives rely on the support of community members and partners who believe in strengthening relationships and building a more inclusive future. Donations help IFHR continue its work along Hamilton Road and expand programs that support community well-being. Your Donation Supports […]
- [Members portal](https://ifhr.ca/members-log-in/): Welcome to the IFHR Member Portal The Member Portal provides registered members of the Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road with access to updates, communications, and information related to the development of the organization. Members are able to stay informed about organizational updates, upcoming meetings, and opportunities to participate in the growth of IFHR. Member Login Registered members can log in to access member-only information and updates. Login fields on the website will include: • Email / Username • Password • Login button • Forgot password option Benefits of Membership Members of IFHR may receive access to: • Member newsletters • […]
- [Resources](https://ifhr.ca/resources/): Working Together Strong communities are built through collaboration and shared support. IFHR recognizes the important work of Indigenous organizations throughout London and values the partnerships and relationships that help strengthen community wellbeing. Community members are encouraged to connect with these organizations if they are seeking services, supports, or additional information. N’Amerind Friendship Centre Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre Nokee Kwe Native Inter-Tribal Housing Co-operative Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Atlohsa Family Healing Services Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians Southern First Nations Secretariat Oneida Nation of the Thames Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Onyota’a:ka Family Healing Lodge Nshwaasnangong Child […]
- [Contact Us](https://ifhr.ca/contact-us/): The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road welcomes inquiries from community members, partners, and organizations interested in learning more about our work. Please reach out using the contact information below or send us a message through the contact form. Contact Information indfellowship.hamroad@yahoo.com phone 519.438.1245 address 2 Homan St, London Ontario office hours monday – friday, 9am – 5pm Follow the fellowship Follow us on social media for updates on programs, events, and community news. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/1525793647439740 Community Partnerships and Referrals We welcome inquiries from community organizations, schools, funders, agencies, and collaborators who want to work together in support of Indigenous community […]
- [About](https://ifhr.ca/about-us/): Who We Are The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) is an Indigenous-led community organization based in London, Ontario. The organization was established to support Indigenous youth, families, and community members by creating welcoming spaces where people can gather, learn, and strengthen relationships with one another. Through community programming, cultural learning, and land-based initiatives such as the Mushkeeki Gitigan Medicine Garden, IFHR works to support community wellbeing and cultural connection within the Hamilton Road neighbourhood. Our Story The work that would eventually lead to the creation of IFHR began through community engagement and land-based learning initiatives within the Hamilton Road […]
- [Get Involved](https://ifhr.ca/get-involved/): Page Overview The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road (IFHR) welcomes community members, partners, and supporters who are interested in contributing to the growth and wellbeing of the Hamilton Road community. There are many ways to get involved with IFHR, including volunteering, forming partnerships, becoming a member, supporting the organization’s mission, or contributing leadership through the Board of Directors. By working together, community members and organizations help strengthen opportunities for cultural learning, community connection, and support within the neighbourhood. Become a Member Community members who wish to take an active role in the future of IFHR are encouraged to become members […]
- [Events calender](https://ifhr.ca/events/): The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road maintains a calendar of upcoming gatherings, celebrations, and community events. This page lists upcoming opportunities for community members to participate in IFHR programming and special events.e will be old events and ones to come. Upcoming Events National Indigenous Peoples Day – Solidarity Day Date: To Be AnnouncedLocation: Hamilton Road Community Area – South Branch Park – 2 Homan StDescription: A celebration of Indigenous culture, community, and connection, recognizing the contributions of Indigenous peoples across Canada. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Date: To Be AnnouncedLocation: Hamilton Road Community Area – South Branch Park – […]
- [Programs & Services](https://ifhr.ca/programs-services-2/): This page will outline the programs and services offered by the Fellowship. The Indigenous Fellowship of Hamilton Road offers a range of community programs that support cultural learning, youth development, community engagement, and reconciliation. These programs are rooted in Indigenous knowledge and community relationships, strengthening connections within both Indigenous and the broader London community. Our Programs Mushkeeki Gitigan – Medicine Garden IFHR’s flagship program supporting Indigenous plant knowledge, medicine teachings, and community land-based learning through the Mushkeeki Gitigan garden Youth Programming Community-focused youth programs that encourage leadership, cultural learning, education, and healthy development for Indigenous youth. Babaamizi Gikinoo’amaadiwin Business and […]
- [Home](https://ifhr.ca/): IFHR is guided by the philosophy of biskaabiiyang. Within Anishinaabe and Nishnaabeg thought, biskaabiiyang is often understood as a process of “returning to ourselves.” Leanne Betasamosake Simpson describes it not as going backward in a simple or nostalgic way, but as a process of re-engaging with what has been left behind and re-emerging from within Indigenous ways of being, knowing, and relating. In that sense, it is tied to both decolonization and resurgence. For IFHR, this philosophy helps name why our work matters. It reflects the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous youth, families, and community members can reconnect with […]


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