Rematriation of Sacred Empty Cradleboard - #9 Bear Clan Mother Series

April 3, 2022: Empty Cradleboard Returns Home to Turtle Island

The cradleboard, a representative symbol of Indigenous mothers and their babies all touched by the impacts of residential schools, journeyed across the salt waters to invoke reflection by the Catholic Church.


In this long overdue historic event, the empty cradleboard presented an opportunity for Pope Francis to feel the injustices inflicted upon our children, families and ancestors.

The cradleboard was retrieved and returned home safely to our elder midwife Katsi Cook, and women leaders. A sigh of relief for Kaluhyanu:wes and Katsitsionni after their week-long trip to the Vatican. 

​Filled with mix emotions, recounting their experiences in detail, both ladies were unbundled from their mission with loving words, gifts and song from our leadership, elders, women and youth.
~ Mommabear


A good example of Rematriation;  that which brings the Sacred home to the Mother.


Author: Wakerakats:te, Iakoiane of Roiane Tehanakari:ne
Bear Clan Mother of the Mohawk Nation Council, 
Louise Bear Herne


Video: https://www.facebook.com/100001555636480/videos/pcb.5067336209994850/509873737185888

Link to radio interview with Louise Herne, Michelle Shenandoah and Katsitsionni Fox :
Women Rising Radio: https://www.womenrisingradio.com/2022/12/26/women-rising-radio-44-indigenous-women-envision-rematriation/

Website: www.somaticsoundtherapeutics.com
Partner Website:https://www.katyamiller.com/
Photograph: Katisionni Fox
Bear Clan Mother Series #9
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