Sweetgrass Park’s revitalization reflects the City of Burlington’s commitment to honouring Indigenous culture and building inclusive public spaces. Located at 555 Woodview Rd., the park now includes a ceremonial circle designed for full-moon and other traditional ceremonies, plus a contemplative area beside Tuck Creek. Both spaces feature natural stone seating known as “wisdom” stones and new sweetgrass plantings to support Indigenous teachings and reflection. Full-moon ceremonies are anticipated to begin this fall.
The project improves trail access with a new asphalt pathway that connects Sweetgrass Park directly to the Centennial Trail and is framed by native tree plantings and pollinator-friendly perennials. Later this summer two custom benches will be installed to support the Moccasin Identifier Project — an Indigenous-led initiative founded by Carolyn King in partnership with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Greenbelt Foundation that raises awareness about treaties and the Indigenous relationship to the land.
The City of Burlington is grateful for an anonymous donation that funded a large portion of the project and for the partnership of the Indigenous Advisory Circle to the Mayor in shaping the park’s Indigenous-centered design.
Mountainside Community Centre: “Our Voices Carry the Land”
In addition to Sweetgrass Park, the City and the Indigenous Advisory Circle to the Mayor have added a new mural and a dedicated Indigenous events space at Mountainside Community Centre. The mural, Our Voices Carry the Land by Métis artist Tessa Lynne Chartrand, opened for public viewing on June 23 after a private event on June 22. Community Room 2 has been reimagined as a priority venue for Indigenous ceremonies, gatherings, teachings and outreach — free of charge for Halton Indigenous community members — while remaining accessible for bookings and programming by everyone. For booking details visit the City of Burlington’s rental page.
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