Today (Tuesday) is National Indigenous Peoples Day with events and activities taking place across the region.
It is a day to recognize and celebrate the heritage, cultures and contributions of Indigenous peoples.
It was first celebrated in 1996 after a proclamation by then Governor General Roméo LeBlanc.
At the time, it was called National Aboriginal Day, but the federal government moved to rename the day in 2017.
The day coincides with the summer solstice, which is a significant cultural day for Indigenous nations.
The Dryden Native Friendship Centre has teamed up with various agencies, businesses and companies for a major Pow Wow at the Memorial Arena.
The free event is being held from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m.
Anishinaabe Tacos will be provided starting at 11:30 a.m. until supplies last.
Executive Director Cheryl Edwards was a guest on the CKDR Morning Show today to talk about one of the highlights.
“Our host drum is Hillside Singers from Saugeen First Nation and we do have drum and dancer honorariums. So, all children, adult dancers, elders, there is honorariums for children and adult dancers.”
Edwards is hoping for a big turnout.
“Can be attended by anyone. I know we are going to have some local schools that will be visiting and participating in our activities as well. There are 32 booths that will be set up in the Dryden Arena around the pow wow area and they are local businsses showcasing their products.”
She adds, “We are looking forward to sharing our culture, and our heritage, and contributions from Indigenous people.”
To hear more from Cheryl Edwards, visit the Audio link below:
Meantime, a full list of activities in Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation for National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The day starts with Breakfast Bingo from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., followed by games and a lunch at noon.
Additional events are scheduled for the afternoon.
The highlight is dinner and entertainment at the Bingo Hall starting at 6:00 p.m.
Juno nominated Billy Joe Green will perform.
Fireworks will end the day at dusk.
National Indigenous Peoples Day. A time to celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures, and many contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
Today and every day, we thank Indigenous Veterans for their service to Canada. #NIPDCanada #CanadaRemembers pic.twitter.com/YP6zH6UV8v
— Veterans Affairs CA (@VeteransENG_CA) June 21, 2022