The O'de Piitaanemaan Pledge The O'de Piitaanemaan Pledge

Respect. Kindness. Pride.

In Peterborough & the Kawarthas, we believe the water connects us all. It gives us everything we need to live authentically, make new discoveries, gather nourishment, strength, and inner peace.

Drawing on the teachings of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg, the O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge represents a universal and evergreen value—respect—and serves to unify everyone for whom the region lives within their hearts.

While travelling in Peterborough & the Kawarthas…

  • I pledge to be light on the land and wise on the water
  • I’ll explore my surroundings with an open heart, ask for help when I need it, and be kind to strangers
  • Before starting my day, I’ll gear up, make a game plan, and get wind of the weather
  • I’ll remember my miigwech's, thank-you's and merci’s
  • With every new season, I’ll seek fresh experiences and flavours, trails, and friends
  • I’ll place safety before sport when pedaling, paddling, parking, or power boating
  • Be it bison, baked goods, or a crafty brew, I’ll buy local where I can
  • I’ll greet new cultures and traditional teachings with curiosity, kindness, and compassion
  • After feeding my soul with authentic adventures, I’ll take fond memories with me and leave nothing but footprints behind

The O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge is about respect: respect for the land, respect for each other, and respect for those who will come after us. The Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg of Curve Lake First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation uphold the traditional teaching, Mnaadendamowin—to give respect to all creation—as a means of living sustainably and in balance with the land, waterways and each other.

So, whether you feel at home in Peterborough & the Kawarthas or are visiting for a day, a week, or a few semesters, taking the O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge means you are promising to protect and preserve this incredible place, its heritage and culture, as well as the welcoming spirit of its people. It means you understand what makes Peterborough & the Kawarthas extraordinary, and are making a commitment to do everything you can to help keep it that way.

We invite you to join our community of communities as we make a commitment to be kind and respect all creation.



Are you a resident or visitor of Peterborough & the Kawarthas? Are you a or of Peterborough & the Kawarthas?