April – Sucker Moon (UFCW Indigenous Calendar)
Toronto – April 1, 2025 – As we step into April, we embrace the season of renewal, growth, and reflection. April brings forth a time of deep connection to the land and the earth's cycles, as well as an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous cultures and traditions. In many Indigenous communities, April is symbolized by the Sucker Moon, a time when life begins to bloom anew and the rhythms of nature guide us through a period of transformation. It is a time to honour the earth, reflect on personal growth, and embrace the renewal of the spirit.
The fourth moon of Creation is Sucker Moon, when the sucker fish journeys to the Spirit World to receive cleansing teachings for this realm. Upon its return, it purifies a path for the Spirits and cleanses all water beings. During this time, we are given the opportunity to learn how to become healed healers.
Key Dates in April:
April 11-20: Toonik Tyme
Toonik Tyme is an annual Inuit festival that marks the return of spring with a wide array of cultural events, traditional practices, and community gatherings. Taking place in the heart of Nunavut, Toonik Tyme celebrates the season of renewal and the resilience of the Inuit people. With events like traditional games, storytelling, and feasts, this festival honours Inuit heritage and brings people together to celebrate the changing of the seasons. It is a time to reflect on the strength of the community and the ways in which Inuit culture continues to thrive through generations.
April 22: Mother Earth Day
Mother Earth Day serves as an important reminder to honour the Earth and acknowledge the profound connection that Indigenous peoples have with the land. For many Indigenous cultures, the Earth is viewed as sacred, and protecting it is essential for the well-being of future generations. On Mother Earth Day, communities come together to reflect on how we can better care for the environment and ensure its preservation for future generations. It’s a day of respect for the land, water, and animals that sustain us, and it reminds us to live in harmony with nature as our ancestors have done for millennia.
The artwork featured in the 2025 UFCW Canada Indigenous Calendar for April was created by Aija Komangapik, an artist from Iqaluit, Nunavut. Aija enjoys painting, drawing, and sewing with whatever materials she has at hand.
The 13 Grandmother Moon Teachings shared here are drawn from "Kinoomaadiewinan Anishinabek Bimaadinzinwin, Book Two" by Arlene Berry. It is important to note that many different teachings exist across the traditional territories of Turtle Island.
To explore more significant dates and teachings, download the Walking Together: 2025 UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee Calendar today.
