Meet the Elders-in-Residence
About the Elders-in-Residence
Elders and Knowledge Keepers play a significant role at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). From visioning the turtle that sits in front of our building, to the sensitive work of honouring children that never returned home from residential schools, our work would not be possible without them. We are grateful for the teachings and wisdom from the Elders-in-Residence that help guide us in our work.
Elder Harry Bone
Giizih-Inini
Elder Dr. Harry Bone is a respected Knowledge Keeper and Anishinaabe leader from Keeseekoowenin First Nation. A former Chief and education…
Elder Dr. Harry Bone is a respected Knowledge Keeper and Anishinaabe leader from Keeseekoowenin First Nation. A former Chief and education leader for Keeseekoowenin Ojibway Nation, Elder Bone has worked tirelessly to preserve and share Indigenous knowledge and traditional laws. He has dedicated many years to reconciliation efforts, championing Indigenous rights and fostering understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Elder Florence Paynter
Ozhoshko Binesi Kwe
Elder Florence Paynter is a third-degree Mide Anishinabekw from Sandy Bay First Nation and a member of Norway House Cree Nation.…
Elder Florence Paynter is a third-degree Mide Anishinabekw from Sandy Bay First Nation and a member of Norway House Cree Nation. She is fluent in Anishinabe and is a strong advocate for language and cultural initiatives, generously sharing the spiritual knowledge and traditions of the Anishinabe people. As a residential school Survivor, Elder Paynter passionately educates about its history and lasting impact, emphasizing the importance of knowing one’s heritage and language for self-pride.
Elder Philip Paynter
Ogimaa Binesii
Elder Philip Paynter is a pipe bearer, a fourth-degree Midewiwin of the Minwewewigan Lodge, and a residential school Survivor from…
Elder Philip Paynter is a pipe bearer, a fourth-degree Midewiwin of the Minwewewigan Lodge, and a residential school Survivor from Norway House Cree Nation. He has extensive experience as a spiritual advisor, cultural teacher, and counsellor, and brings deep wisdom, compassion, and insight to his work.
NCTR’s spirit name – bezhig miigwan, meaning “one feather”.
Bezhig miigwan calls upon us to see each Survivor coming to the NCTR as a single eagle feather and to show those Survivors the same respect and attention an eagle feather deserves. It also teaches we are all in this together — we are all one, connected, and it is vital to work together to achieve reconciliation.