The symbolic Mikinaak artwork – The Sacred Turtle carrying Mother Earth with 13 shell scutes.
In the worldview of the Anishinaabe and many First Nations across Turtle Island, the turtle is far more than a creature of nature. Mikinaak (The Turtle) carries the mark of creation, perseverance, and the most foundational lesson of the Seven Grandfather Teachings: Debwewin – Truth.
When wearing orange on Every Child Matters day, the symbol of the turtle stands as a vital bridge connecting a painful history to a future of healing.
1. Turtle Island and Honor for Mother Earth
According to Indigenous creation stories, when a great flood covered the earth, it was the turtle who volunteered its back to hold the mud placed by the Creator, forming the land of North America—reverently known as Turtle Island.
The turtle’s shell features 13 large scutes representing the 13 full moons of the lunar year, surrounded by 28 smaller scutes marking the days of each lunar cycle. Mikinaak is a living calendar, deeply entwining humanity with the rhythm of Mother Earth.
2. Debwewin – "Truth" Before Reconciliation
Among the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the Turtle represents Debwewin (Truth). Moving deliberately and steadily, the turtle reminds us that truth can neither be rushed nor concealed.
Within the Every Child Matters movement, the Turtle symbol conveys a profound message:
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Truth Before Reconciliation: True healing cannot occur without first honoring and facing the full truth regarding the residential school system and its legacy.
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Enduring Resilience: Overcoming intergenerational trauma requires patience, strength, and unwavering persistence—just like the journey of Mikinaak.
3. The Story Behind The Mikinaak Collection Design
Every garment in The Turtle Collection by Native Pattern is crafted with deep cultural respect:
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13-Scute Shell Motifs: Rendered in authentic Indigenous Formline art, incorporating plant sprouts and child silhouettes to symbolize the protection of future generations.
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Sacred Orange Hue: Honoring the spirits of the children who never came home and empowering the survivors.
Wearing the Mikinaak design is more than a fashion choice—it is a sacred commitment to stand for Truth.
👉 [Explore The Mikinaak / Turtle Collection Here]