The Seven Sacred Laws is a colourful and imaginative animated series that follows a young boy on an Indigenous rite of passage: a vision quest. On his spiritual journey, he meets seven sacred animals that teach him how we as people should live our lives on Mother Earth.

Written by Anishinaabe Elder, Dr. David Courchene, directed by Indigenous filmmaker, Erica Daniels of Peguis First Nation, and created by Manitoba’s Peg City Pictures Inc., the vignettes tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples in their own voices.

The Seven Sacred Laws are important teachings in our cultures as the Original People of Turtle Island. They are ancestral values that inspire our conduct as human beings and bring us back to a relationship with the Earth.

The Seven Sacred Laws are represented by seven animals. Each animal offers a special gift and understanding of how we as people should live our lives on Mother Earth. The Turtle Lodge has initiated the return and sharing of the Seven Sacred Laws in this very special time as we search for peace. It is more important than ever to share the history of first nations people before colonization.

Episode 1: The Creation Story (4:03) - A young boy sets out on a vision quest in a sacred place known as Manito Api, which translates to “where the Creator sits”.

Episode 2: Buffalo (Respect) (3:05) - An apparition of a buffalo emerges from the sacred fire and teaches the boy the law of respect.

Episode 3: Eagle (Love) (3:11) - A large eagle appears overhead to teach the law of love.

Episode 4: Bear (Courage) (3:10) - A bear emerges from the woods and startles the boy, as he learns about the law of courage. 

Episode 5: Sabe (Honesty) (3:29) - A large and imposing creature similar to Bigfoot appears and teaches the boy about honesty.

Episode 6: Beaver (Wisdom) (2:50) - A beaver scurries up to the boy to provide the law of wisdom.

Episode 7: Wolf (Humility) (3:05) - The boy is approached cautiously by a wolf, who explains to him the value of humility.

Episode 8: Turtle (Truth) (4:34) - A beautiful song draws the boy to a special encounter with a turtle, who helps him understand the importance of truth.

Also available in French and Anishinaabe.