Oherokon translated to “Under the Husk” is a ritual of transition for Haudenosaunee youth seeking a cultural and ceremonial process to transition them from youth to adult. Oherokon reaches out to troubled youth or at-risk youth, or those in need of connecting to their culture.
For over 10 years, we have reconstructed and conducted a continuum of a ceremony based on the needs of youth in our territory. It includes the Creation Story; Founding of the Clans, Kaianerekowa, with many morale lessons weaved into the legends and stories like the Cornhusk Doll, Seven Dancers, and Ratiwe:ras. With an emphasis on positive survival skill development, combined with our supportive aunt/uncle approach, our ceremony is highly respected by our elders and a highly effective solution for our youth. Our youth-focused approach also strives to be a solution for youth decision making.
We provide a safe, culturally based experience to ensure our youth are connected to a strong Haudenosaunee identity. Only within this context of a safe and supportive environment can long-lasting behavioural changes be instilled and helped to grow.
- Date: Thursday November 20, 2014
- Time: 3:00 PM — 9:00 PM
- Presenter: Louise McDonald
- Contact information: Leo Parent, traditional support counselor at the Family and Wellness Center: 450-638-0408