Peacemaking & Probation Department
ODENAANG ENJINOOJIMOYING “A Place of Healing Many Hearts”
VISION STATEMENT
The vision of Odenaang Enjinoojimoying is to provide a traditional conflict resolution process for children, adults, and descents of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. Peacemaking is also extended to address conflicts between non -member tribal employees. The Peacemaking process will promote healing between the participants by providing a safe environment in which healthier relationships can be encouraged through the art of discussion. Peacemakers will draw upon knowledge of Anishinaabek customs to work out problems and utilize community -based services to reach these goals. Peacemakers will help the participants to help themselves. The focus of this process will always be one of healing rather than punishment. People will be encouraged through Peacemaker mediation to address their issues and agree to a path that leads to a positive resolution
There are seven woodland flowers that represent the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
There are two peacemakers, one female and one male representing the balance in peacemaking.
There is also a designation for a smudge. Smudging is a purification ceremony, and creates a safe environment in which to conduct Peacemaking sessions.
WHAT IS PEACEMAKING?
Peacemaking is the way Anishinabek resolve problems, issues and disputes. It is done in a “Talking Circle” format. Each person that has a vested interest in the problems has a chance to speak their part in what happened then they come up with a solution that all the people involved can agree to, and help the person hurt by the problem to heal, giving them a way to say “that is good and I feel better about what happened and we can now live together again in our community”.