Kapawe’no First Nation – Osâwâpiskâw Asapap (The Golden Thread) is deeply engaged in exploring sovereignty, governance, and the complex fabric of treaties in Indigenous-Settler relations.
Through our Buffalo Bay Academy, a vibrant new mural is set to become a centerpiece of cultural education and historical reflection. Crafted by Leverne, a talented local artist, the mural embodies the spirit of Osâwâpiskâw Asapap—a learning initiative dedicated to deepening students’ understanding of Indigenous histories and contemporary issues.
Scheduled for unveiling next week, the mural features a striking design that symbolizes the ongoing dialogue between two sovereign nations and the renegotiation of historic treaty rights. Central to this narrative is the depiction of muskwa (bear), an emblem of the Kapawe’no First Nation, representing strength, courage, and resilience.
The design emerged from a collective brainstorming process involving students and the high school accredited program, with ideas that Leverne skillfully incorporated into the final artwork. The use of dual horizontal bands represents the parallel paths envisioned in the Two Row Wampum, an iconic historical agreement that underscores mutual respect and peaceful coexistence since 1613.
Background; The original Two Row Wampum belt, known as the Guswhenta or Kaswentha, is a historic wampum belt made by the original people of North America, specifically the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). It was created to symbolize the agreement of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence between the Haudenosaunee and Dutch settlers in the early 17th century.
The belt itself is crafted from white and purple beads made from quahog shells. The two parallel purple rows against a white background symbolize two paths or two vessels—representing the Indigenous and European settlers—traveling down the river of life together but in separate boats, without interfering in each other’s affairs.
Last modified: May 13, 2024
