Powwows and other events are being held in the Thunder Bay, Ont., and area as First Nation communities celebrate culture, community, food, dancing, music, tradition and regalia this National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD).
NIPD, observed every June 21, honours the heritage, resilience and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Turtle Island.
In northwestern Ontario, for instance, some events begin Friday.
For those looking to join the celebrations, CBC Thunder Bay has put together the following list of powwows and other National Indigenous Peoples Day events:
Kenora
Grand Council Treaty #3 NIPD celebrations: Saturday’s events will be held at Point Park. Activities will include a ceremonial pipe smoking ceremony at 12 p.m., a sweat lodge ceremony at 2 p.m., and pontoon boat rides from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be food and craft vendors throughout the day, as well as a district fastball players exhibition basketball game. There will be limited seating available and attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs. Food vendors should also bring their own tables.
Bob Goulais to MC: Kenora Chiefs Advisory Youth and Family Wellness Camp has announced that Bob Goulais will be the master of ceremonies for its National Indigenous Peoples Day activities. It says Goulais is Anishinaabe from Nipissing First Nation and is a respected speaker, traditional teacher, and facilitator known for bringing cultural context and traditional knowledge to audiences across the country. The all-day event will include cultural demonstrations, hands-on activities, traditional teachings, and community celebration.
Sioux Lookout
Anishinaabe Giizhigan Day Celebrations: Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre and Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority are hosting Anishinaabe Giizhigan Celebrations on Friday, June 20 in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day. Organizers promise a fun-filled afternoon with a free barbecue lunch, dancing, drumming and a special guest appearance from the Asham Stompers Jigging Group. Activities will start at 11 a.m. at the hospital’s main entrance.
Anishinaabe Ghiizigan mini powwow: Nishnawbe-Gamik Friendship Centre is hosting this mini powwow at Sioux Lookout Town Beach on Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Thunder Bay
City-organized powwow: The Fort William First Nation will host a powwow and feature food vendors, crafters and a feast. Activities will kick off at 5:30 a.m. with a sunrise ceremony. Opening ceremonies are scheduled for 12 p.m., grand entry at 1 p.m., and the feast at 5 p.m. The free event will also include giveaways. Bus service will be provided to the powwow grounds and parking is located at the Fort William First Nation Arena.
Red Sky Métis Independent Nation event: The Red Sky Métis Independent Nation is inviting the public to a free National Indigenous Peoples Day event Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fort William Historical Park. It will feature activities for all ages, including Métis storytelling, natural tea to try, a colouring contest, a scavenger hunt and more. There will also be an opportunity to meet Roy the Beaver.
