Georgetown walk and talk events explore Anishinaabe bird names
By: Christian Collington, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, TheIFP.ca
This article was originally published by Christian Collington, a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter with TheIFP.ca, on Sept 25, 2025 at 09:05
Two upcoming nature-inspired events in Georgetown are inviting residents to discover the cultural and ecological significance of local birds through Anishinaabe language.
The events are organized by the Town of Halton Hills and Bird Friendly Halton Hills.
On Saturday, Oct. 4, Creators Garden educators Joseph Pitawanakwat and Junaid Kahn will host a guided bird walk through Hungry Hollow.
Creators Garden is an Indigenous outdoor education company, based in Peterborough, Ont., that aims to regather and share Indigenous bird knowledge.
They also teach plant-based medicine and sustainable harvesting practices.
The walk, which will run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at West Branch Park (West Branch Drive, Georgetown), will introduce participants to local bird species and the meanings of their names in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language).
These names, rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions, reflect each bird’s unique characteristics and its connection to the natural environment.
Registration is required by Oct. 3 as space is limited.
Also that day, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Pitawanakwat and Kahn will give a talk on Anishinaabe bird names at the Helson Gallery (9 Church St., Georgetown) as part of the opening celebration for the Art for the Birds exhibition.
The talk will explore the deep connections between people, birds and the environment, while also highlighting the three birds currently in the running for the Town Bird vote.
It will also connect cultural teachings with community art and local conservation efforts.
Registration is not required for the talk.
Follow the Field & Shutter Press
Instagram | YouTube | BlueSky
Have a tip, story idea, event, or want to appear as a guest column? Contact us.