Our Voices Carry the Land

As part of National Indigenous History Month, the City of Burlington and the Indigenous Advisory Circle to the Mayor, comprising of WhiteEagle Stonefish, Kate Dickson, and Stephen Paquette, unveiled the mural Our Voices Carry the Land by Burlington-based Indigenous artist Tessa-Lynne Chartrand. This artwork marks the transformation of Community Room 2 at Mountainside Community Centre into a space where Indigenous communities can gather in culture, ceremony and celebration.

Our Voices Carry the Land, is a celebration of connection, community, and inclusivity, rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing. Centered around the phrase “All My Relations”, the artwork reflects the deep interconnectedness between people, the land, and all living beings. By incorporating Mount Nemo in an abstract form, the mural honors the land we are on—grounding the piece in a local landmark that symbolizes resilience and harmony with nature.

The Medicine Wheel at the center of the mural represents balance, healing, and the interconnectedness of all life. Alongside it, the medicine bag reflects teachings of cultural wisdom, personal strength, and spiritual growth. The surrounding silhouettes of different life stages, featuring both male and female forms, symbolize the journey of life and the importance of inclusion across age and gender. This mural is not just a visual piece—it’s a living statement of belonging, respect for Indigenous teachings, and a vision for unity across Turtle Island.