In Discussion with Willow River Centre

Amy Smoke (they/them) is Mohawk Nation, Turtle Clan, of the Six Nations of the Grand River. They are a Two Spirit, IndigiQueer parent, land defender/water protector, community organizer, and public speaker. Amy has won several awards in the fields of Social Justice and Community Leadership and they are one of the co-founders of O:se Kenhionhata:tie Land Back Camp; a space for Two Spirit, IndigiQueer, trans, non- binary youth and settler allies in the LGBTQ+ community. They are one of the co-directors of Willow River Centre, the first and only 2S IndigiQueer led organization in Waterloo Region. Amy is also a sessional instructor at the University of Waterloo, Renison University College, in the BSW, and MSW programs.

Bangishimo (They/Them) is an IndigiQueer Anishinaabe originally from Couchiching First Nation located on Treaty #3 territory. They currently reside in so-called Kitchener located along the Grand River. Bangishimo is a community organizer, educator, and advocate. Their focus is creating space for communities to come together allowing for Black, Indigenous and racialized voices to be heard. They are currently one of the co-founders of O:se Kenhionhata:tie also known as Land Back Camp. Their advocacy and photography have allowed them to visit over sixteen countries, taking photos and sharing the stories of those they meet along the way. Bangishimo's work has been featured in numerous publications, has won numerous awards and has had their work on display throughout Waterloo Region. Bangishimo was the City of Kitchener’s first Indigenous Artist-in-Residence (2022-23).

Willow River Centre, formerly known as Land Back Camp since 2020 and formally rebranded in 2023, is a dedicated community hub in the Waterloo Region. Our mission is to empower Two-Spirit and queer Indigenous youth by providing a safe and affirming space where they can explore and express their identities and reconnect with their cultural roots. Our vision is to be a sanctuary for these individuals, offering not only a place of gathering but also a platform for vital cultural exchange and personal growth.Operating with a small yet impactful team of staff and volunteers, Willow River Centre emphasizes the values embedded in the Dish With One Spoon and the Two Row Wampums. These principles advocate for peace, mutual respect, and shared stewardship of resources, guiding our programming and interactions within the community.Our centre is unique in its dual function as both a social and ceremonial gathering space, facilitating essential services that foster inclusion, support mental and social well-being, and break down barriers for Indigenous and racialized LGBTQ+ youth. Through activities such as elder-led teachings, cultural workshops, and community celebrations, we create meaningful connections and bolster the resilience of our community members.By focusing on the specific needs of Two-Spirit and queer Indigenous youth, Willow River Centre serves as a critical cultural and social infrastructure within the region, ensuring that these often marginalized voices are heard and celebrated.
This discussion is part of - a community project hosted by 10C

Through this project we are looking to improve access to resources, perspectives and learning opportunities to support settler-led organizations in addressing colonial underpinnings in their organizations.

Host or Publisher 10C Shared Space