“O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge” Tourism Campaign Launched In Peterborough & the Kawarthas
/As the province reopens Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism (PKT) is gearing up to welcome more visitors to the area.
Photo Courtesy Of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development and the official Destination Marketing Organization for the City and County of Peterborough is launching the “O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge” an invitation for residents and visitors to promise to respect the land, waterways and communities of the region.
Pronounced “Oh-da Pee-tah-na-mawn”, this initiative was created in collaboration with Curve Lake First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation and draws on the traditional teachings of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg.
“If we’ve learned anything from 2020, it’s the power of unity, of working together for a mutual cause,” says Tracie Bertrand, Director of Tourism, PKT. “Respect for the people, culture, and natural spaces we depend on, for future generations—for each other—has never been more important, and the O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge is meant to unify everyone for whom Peterborough & the Kawarthas lives within their hearts.”
“O’de Piitaanemaan” is the Ojibway word for “respect,” and comes from the teaching “mnaadendamowin” — to give respect to all creation. It is hoped that this pledge will encourage everyone to do their part in preserving and appreciating the earth.
The O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge is as follows:
I pledge to be light on the land and wise on the water.
I’ll explore my surroundings with an open heart, ask for help when I need it and be kind to strangers.
Before starting my day, I’ll gear up, make a game plan and get wind of the weather.
I’ll remember my miigwech’s, thank-you's and merci’s.
With every new season, I’ll seek fresh experiences and flavours, trails and friends.
I’ll place safety before sport when pedalling, paddling, parking or powerboating.
Be it bison, baked goods or a crafty brew, I’ll buy local where I can.
I’ll greet new cultures and traditional teachings with curiosity, kindness, and compassion.
After feeding my soul with authentic adventures, I’ll take fond memories with me and leave nothing but footprints behind.
