From March 5-7, 2025, the inaugural Braiding Knowledges Canada (BKC) Gathering took place at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec. This event marked an important transition—from the Canadian Mountain Network (CMN) to BKC—and reaffirmed the commitment to bringing Indigenous and Western knowledges together in research, policy, and decision-making.
A Gathering Rooted in Reciprocity and Collaboration
This Gathering provided a space for building relationships, sharing stories, and reflecting on the responsibility of research. Indigenous leaders, researchers, and partners from across Canada gathered not only to discuss knowledge co-production but to talk about where they come from, their home communities, their ancestors, and their hopes for the future of knowledge and reconciliation in Canada.
From the Thanksgiving Address by Dominique Rankin Perso and Marie-Josée Tardif to the Medicine Wheel teachings led by Karen MacKenzie, the Gathering was shaped by ceremony, trust, reciprocity, and care. Attendees spoke about the lands and waters they belong to and the ways their histories inform their work today. Conversations weren’t just about research; they were about relationships, responsibility, and the commitments we carry forward.
Photos: Thanksgiving Address by Dominique Rankin Perso and Marie-Josée Tardif
Photos: Medicine Wheel teachings led by Karen MacKenzie
The discussions were grounded in real-world challenges—ensuring Indigenous leadership in conservation, stopping extractive research practices, and moving reconciliation beyond rhetoric into action. These weren’t abstract ideas but the lived realities of those working to reclaim knowledge systems, protect lands, and reshape decision-making in Canada.
Knowledge Braiders Award: Recognizing Those Leading Change
A key moment of the Gathering was the Knowledge Braiders Award, which recognized those actively weaving together Indigenous and Western knowledges in their communities. This year, we were honored to sponsor 12 pairs of Knowledge Braiders, supporting their work in land and water stewardship, Indigenous health, education, and governance.
Beyond receiving recognition, these Knowledge Braiders had the chance to present their work, share their experiences, and discuss the challenges they face in bringing knowledge systems together. Their presence underscored that braiding knowledges isn’t just an idea—it’s happening on the ground, in communities across Canada, led by those deeply connected to their lands and cultures.
Photos: Knowledge Braiders Award recipients and awards
Honoring a Transition, Looking to the Future
One of the most meaningful moments of the Gathering was the Ribbon Cutting & Awards Gala Dinner, marking the formal transition from the Canadian Mountain Network (CMN) to Braiding Knowledges Canada (BKC). This shift is more than a name change—it’s a commitment to ensuring that Indigenous-led research is prioritized, supported, and centered in shaping Canada’s environmental and scientific landscape.
We were also honoured to welcome Madahoki Farm, whose drum performance and hoop dancing at the Gala dinner made the evening truly unforgettable. Through powerful storytelling and movement, they brought Indigenous traditions to life in a way that was both captivating and deeply meaningful. This enriching cultural experience left us all inspired. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to witness and celebrate these beautiful expressions of Indigenous artistry.
Photos: Ribbon Cutting & Awards Gala Dinner
Carrying This Work Forward
As the Gathering ended, one thing was clear: these conversations will continue. This wasn’t a final destination—it was a moment of momentum, a step forward in reshaping how knowledge is shared, valued, and applied in Canada.
To everyone who attended, shared their stories, and contributed—thank you. The work of braiding knowledges is ongoing, and this Gathering was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together with respect, responsibility, and a shared vision for the future.
Photos from the 2025 BKC Gathering
Were you at the Gathering?
Share your reflections using #BKC2025Gathering
