A Spirit House is now officially allowed at the Dryden Cemetery.
Council has overwhelmingly agreed to change its cemetery by-law to reflect the cultural importance and respect of a Traditional Gravehouse.
Shayne MacKinnon says this is an important step it their path towards reconciliation.
“It’s also indicative of how the City of Dryden can, and I believe will, become more aware of the needs of all of our community residents.
MacKinnon is hoping this paves the way for more change.
“As a proud community member I am very hopeful that this type of decision will be held out as an example when we consider naming or re-naming streets or facilities within the City. When we talk about the use of parks and structures on park property. When we talk about meaningful and lasting partnerships with our Indigenous neighbouring communities. When we talk about community well-being and safety. And when we follow-up on our strategic plans.”
The issue came to light last November when Everett Dylan MacKinnon-Ottertail was told to remove the Anishinaabe Spirit House on his late sister’s plot because of by-law violations.
That sparked a healthy conversation between the family and the City on Indigenous customs and reconciliation.
