Thousands of years ago, in the Iron Creek area of Alberta
ONE OF CANADA'S LARGEST METEORITES CAME TO EARTH AS A GIFT FROM THE COSMOS, INSPIRING UNITIY AMONG THE PLAINS TRIBES.
The Manitou Stone has been known by many names:
Manitou Asinîy (Cree) meaning - Creator Stone
Iniskim (Blackfoot) meaning - Buffalo Stone
Tsa Xani (Dene) meaning - God Stone
Its removal caused intergenerational trauma that echoes through Indigenous communities to this day and its names now represent
MAITX, an Indigenous-led, non-profit organization, MAITX has received full support from the Chiefs of Alberta, Saskatchewan, including the Blackfeet of Montana, USA.
We invite you to join the circle, and raise your voices, as together, we call the Stone home.
THe manitou stone
symbolizes unity, peace,
and a deep spiritual connection for first nations
As an ancient sacred artifact, it once served as a gathering place where tribes came came to perform spiritual and ceremonial practice. The stone was revered as a source of strength and guidance, embodying the prosperity and balance represented by the buffalo. It inspired pilgrimage and mutual respect among tribes, fostering a shared understanding that animosity had no place in its presence. For generations, the Manitou Stone brought communities together, grounding them in spiritual practice and reinforcing their connection to the land and each other.
Manitou Asinîy
She travelled from the heavens
many years ago
landed on the grass-breast
of Earth.
The prairie people always said
we are the Star People.
Stardust is our body.
Children, adults, the elderly
like to pocket stones,
run their fingers, their toes
through the singing sands.
They don’t know the stars
are calling.
Yet, in the thick blanket of darkness
they look to the skies
watch heavenly lights,
the Spirit Road.
They are mesmerized
by the Star Dancers
that swirl at the sound of a drum.
Watch the round-dance of
rainbow shawls
weaving, twisting
called the Northern Lights.
They rush out at dusk
when they learn
a meteor shower
is to spark,
fall into their hearts.
Manitou Asiniy
you’ve called in the early dawn
advised us to rise and
give thanks to the Earthmother
as she breathes beneath
our wandering feet.
Copyright: Sky Dancer, Dr.Louise B. Halfe
MAITX is working to raise the funds to rematriate the Manitou Stone to a new home as part of a comprehensive language and cultural centre.
With your help we will take the first step in
ReconciliACTION:
Restoring the stone, and restoring balance
