Putting Words Into Action

In 2016, the Truth and Reconciliation Committee identified 94 Calls to Action, some of which were directed towards churches. The Andrew venue heard this invitation and committed itself to taking steps to develop friendships with Indigenous artists, educating ourselves about Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples, and inviting Indigenous communities into our space.

In 2018, renowned Métis artist Christi Belcourt gave us special permission to create a mural of her piece titled Wisdom of the Universe, originally commissioned by the Art Gallery of Ontario. Belcourt’s work is in the tradition of traditional Metis art known as “Dot Art.” The original is comprised of 250,000 dots! Read her poignant artist statement here.

We engaged Toronto muralist Jason Rouleau of Muralform to reimagine the art for this canvas. His team arrived on October 9, 2018, and the mural was completed over the course of seven days. This is the largest Indigenous mural on a church in Canada.

In Feb 2019, Ms. Belcourt spoke to an audience of ninety at our venue, including many from our neighbouring Kenhtè:ke Kanyen’kehá:ka community in Tyendinaga (the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte). Kanonhsyonne Jan Hill, Clan Mother of the Turtle Clan (Mohawk Nation in Tyendinaga), officially welcomed her. 

Since then, The Andrew has also raised close to $5000 for Nimkii Aazhibikong, an independent Indigenous-led camp that is focused on connecting young people with elders for arts and cultural land-based teachings.

As we continue on this learning and action-forward journey, we actively look for ways to engage, collaborate, and support the Indigenous stewards of this land.