Over the weekend of September 13th, Alex Mathias, an Ojibway elder, will host his annual ceremony to mark the fall equinox on his traditional family territory in the Temagami region of Ontario. It will be a weekend of wilderness camping, solidarity and learning about the old-growth forests that make Temagami unique.

On Saturday there will be a 'Changing of the Seasons' ceremony, guest speakers, a potluck lunch, visits to Spirit Rock, and guided hikes through the old-growth forest. Attendees have the option of participating in group events after the ceremony, exploring the area on their own, or simply enjoying some quiet time on the lake. Other optional activities may include a traditional sweat and tree climbing workshops. There is no structured agenda for the weekend and Sunday is an open day which could include a guided canoe excursion for those who are interested.

Participants are expected to provide their own food and gear. Earthroots will be renting canoes for people who don't have access to their own and this cost will be shared between the group. Most people will be located at the main campsite on the north end of Obabika Lake where the ceremony will take place (please note that alcohol is not permitted in the main gathering area or around the sacred fire). Some basic paddling experience is required.

Earthroots will be organizing carpools for people located in the GTA (leaving Toronto Friday AM and then heading back from Temagami Monday AM). If you need a ride or you have a vehicle with space for others, let us know. Please be aware that the drive in is very rough and slow going once you hit the logging road that takes you into Alex's (directions will be provided once you have registered).

Last year's event was the biggest yet with over 100 participants including a crew from CityTV. You can view photos of last year's gathering in the gallery section of the Earthroots website: http://www.earthroots.org/index.php/component/option,com_rsgallery2/Itemid,49/catid,1/