Willow River Centre is creating space for ceremony and connection
Around the Region shares the work of different community partners and the work they do in Waterloo Region. In this edition, we hear from Willow River Centre, a community space for Indigenous and Racialized, Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ youth and others.
Written by Olivia Maine and Milo Hansen
Photos by Bangishimo and Phi Doan
June, a month of celebrating 2S and LGBTQIA+ Pride and Indigenous History, finds many IndigiQueer and Two-Spirit people left out of the broader conversation about community and belonging at the intersection of culture and identity. That’s why Willow River Centre will be present at as many celebrations as possible, with plenty of swag, making June the busiest month of the year.
Willow River Centre is the first Two-Spirit, IndigiQueer led community space in Waterloo Region. With humble roots as the O:se Kenhionhata:tie tipi in Willow River Park (once known as Victoria Park), the community that came together had always spoken about having a physical place to gather and feel connected. The region has a history of anti-Indigenous racism and queerphobia that has shaped the atmosphere into a feeling of general hostility. That’s what O:se Kenhionhata:tie set about to change. The goal was to bring people together, and that’s what happened. Willow River Centre naturally sprung up from those needs. It took four years to secure funding and a building, but with doors officially opened at 243 King Street East, Kitchener in October 2023, there has never been more joy downtown.
The goal has always been to carve a place for those who live in this urban setting to have an accessible place for ceremony, resources, space, and culture, and most importantly, connection to one another. During the time since opening, the Centre has provided space for private and public safety workshops, many different ceremonies, health clinics, sacred fires, artisan events, concerts, drumming, and more. These gatherings have brought together a community full of vibrancy and hope for a better way forward and a sustainable future.
This June, in addition to regular drop-in hours, Willow River Centre has an ongoing gallery that rotates local marginalized artists periodically. It is currently showing the beautiful art of Judy Ross-Mack, a local Indigenous artist known for both digital and traditional paintings. You can visit us during drop-in hours to see it for yourself and support the artist.
This solstice will see an Indigenous artisan pop-up in partnership with Kitchener Farmers’ Market on June 22, with vendors and musicians showcasing their many talents. You can expect to find both traditional and non-traditional crafts, hand drumming circles, and singing.
A Two-Spirit Circle will be held on June 26 at Willow River Centre. This circle is a monthly event for IndigiQueer and Two-Spirit people of all ages to come socialize in a brave space. Light refreshments and good company provided.
Also throughout the month, Tionnhekwen garden at Schneider Haus will have call-outs for getting dirty with planting and upkeep of the community food sovereignty project headed by O:se Kenhionhata:tie. There will be plenty of opportunity to volunteer throughout the summer and fall as well. This yearly project’s goal is to bring the conversation about food sovereignty into the community, to provide food to those who need it, and to educate about different garden types.
Looking forward to a wonderful month of celebration and a more connected future together, Willow River Centre can’t wait to connect with you. You can find out more at:
Instagram: ose.kenhionhatatie
Facebook: O:se Kenhionhata:tie