Upcoming Indigenous Medicines Walk & Talk & Oil Workshop on June 27
Members of King Township and the Indigenous community came together on Saturday, Jun. 14 to recognize the diverse histories, heritage and cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada during the ceremonial opening of the Indigenous Medicine Garden—also known as Kahéhta—at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre. A heartfelt celebration of Indigenous culture, resilience and community, the event honoured Indigenous traditions through medicine, art and shared experience.
The garden was designed by Indigenous garden coordinator and partner Tanya Gluvakov, and created with the assistance of King Township Community Services staff. The various plants and medicines symbolize the interconnectedness of all people, Nations and life on Mother Earth, while highlighting the resurgence of Indigenous language, knowledge and medicines tied to the Land.
The ceremonial opening featured drummer Rollin Baldhead, along with inspiring words from event partner Tanya Gluvakov and fellow knowledge keeper Asha Frost, as well as appearance from Miss Indigenous Canada Jessica McKenzie. Attendees toured the space to experience the Butterfly "Memengwaa" Trail Marker by artist Donald Chretien of Nipissing First Nation, proudly installed at what is the heart of the new Indigenous Medicine Garden. Guests also contributed to the Indigenous Medicine Garden during the event by planting soil and designing their own garden stones, which are now part of the living installation.
The Indigenous Medicine Garden provides space for connection, reflection, gathering and reciprocity. The garden is now open to the public and can be visited at any time. Its circular design reflects the interconnectedness of the community, where everyone within it has a voice.
A Truth & Reconciliation mural (located on the museum’s east-facing exterior wall) is currently being painted by artist Shawn Howe and will be unveiled closer to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which takes place on September 30. It will complement the garden, with Indigenous medicines integrated into the design and will provide a space for reflection and healing towards reconciliation in King Township.
Indigenous Medicines Walk & Talk and Oil Infusion Workshop
As part of National Indigenous History Month, King Township is also hosting a unique cultural and educational experience at Cold Creek Conservation Area on Friday, Jun. 27, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Indigenous Medicines Walk & Talk and Oil Infusion Workshop, led by Gluvakov, offers participants the opportunity to learn about honourable and sustainable wild harvesting practices through a guided hike. Attendees will explore how to identify medicinal plants, build reciprocal relationships with the Land and connect with nature in meaningful ways. Following the hike, participants will create oil infusions using pre-harvested, dried local medicines and take part in a talking circle and mindfulness exercises.
This outdoor program is open to individuals aged six and up and is designed for adults, seniors and families. Pre-registration is required, with a fee of $30 plus HST for residents and $33 plus HST for non-residents to cover the cost of materials.
For more information or to register, visit kingheritageandculture.ca.
King Township 175th Anniversary Events
The June 14 celebration was one of several free events marking King Township’s 175th anniversary in 2025, supported by the Government of Canada’s Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. Upcoming events include:
- Canada Day Celebration at Memorial Park in King City on Tuesday, Jul. 1 from 5 p.m. to dusk.
- Raspberry Social at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre on Saturday, Aug. 9.
For more information, visit king.ca/175.
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