
SĀPOHTĒWIN
Rites of Passage



The Objectives of the Sāpohtēwin Program are:
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Mark key life transitions with meaningful rites that promote personal growth, resilience, and readiness for new responsibilities within the community.
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Understanding and connecting to one's Indigenous identity, including traditions, values, and ancestral teachings.
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Foster a deep sense of belonging and accountability to both the community and the natural world, emphasizing respect, stewardship, and interconnectedness.
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Rites of Passage is a transformative journey that marks a significant transition in an individual’s life, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood.
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This journey of transition is a symbolic doorway that youth pass through, leaving their old identities and entering a new phase of life.
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It’s an initiation that tests their inner strength, resilience, and patience.
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It’s a time to celebrate their growth, maturity, and connection to their culture.
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This rite of passage fosters feelings of acceptance and belonging, as they are welcomed into a new stage of life.
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By honouring this ceremony, we can help build strong, resilient Indigenous youth who are grounded in tradition.
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Through these practices, youth will gain a deeper understanding of their traditional roles as women and men, as well as their place in the world and their connection to all of Creation.
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By participating in Rites of Passage, Indigenous youth are reclaiming their ancestral roots, healing from intergenerational traumas, and strengthening their connection to their communities and all of Creation.

By participating in the Rites of Passage,
Indigenous youth are reclaiming their heritage, healing from intergenerational traumas, and strengthening their connection to their communities and all of Creation.








