Celebrating Indigenous Culture and Advancing Reconciliation

This past year unveiled a dark and tragic chapter of Canadian history. Having witnessed the discovery of the multiple unmarked burial sites at former residential schools, our hearts are aching from grief, loss and regret. We know that expressing our sympathies is not enough. The reality is cruel to grasp. However, despite our collective shock and disbelief, we must acknowledge our nation’s shameful legacy as it sends a concrete reminder of the necessity to reflect on how Canadian society treats Indigenous people, and what steps are taken toward building a better relationship.

Celebrating and supporting Indigenous culture is one of those steps. In fact, it is a fundamental approach to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, which for the last two years has been shadowed by the frustration of inaction. Since the COVID-19 pandemic brought cultural gatherings season to a grinding halt, most of the Indigenous festivals and powwows cancelled their annual celebrations, with some having shifted to the online mode. In both cases, though, it resulted in costly consequences for everyone involved – the organizers, sponsors, participants, vendors, and the local communities, and created additional hurdles in our efforts to continue moving forward on the path of reconciliation.

Thus, there has never been a more critical need for positive action. And this summer presents an opportunity to restore progress towards our inclusive future. With many celebrations returning to in-person events, we can advance promoting and revitalizing the relationships between Indigenous peoples and all Canadians by fostering our cultural dialogue.

June 1st marks the beginning of National Indigenous History Month. To commemorate National Aboriginal History month, various events and activities are being held across Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing, which is proud to be a home for 17 First Nations communities. Every community hosts its own unique festivals and powwows, accentuating strong Indigenous cultural traditions and customs. For example, the first weekend in June marks the 30th anniversary of Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation’s annual powwow, organized under auspices of “healing our spirit through culture.” As culture is central in Indigenous approaches to health and well-being, it is an important moment for us to reinstate our support and dedication to ensuring the protection and betterment of traditional, spiritual, and cultural healing and wellness activities for First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Other powwows and celebrations across Northern Ontario have been announced as well, ensuring that there will be an abundance of opportunities to share knowledge and celebrate Canada's thriving Indigenous cultures. June 6 is a day of great importance for the Anishinabek Nation communities to celebrate - the Anishinabek Nation holiday in honour of the historic proclamation of the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin (constitution). Of paramount significance is June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day, the summer solstice that Indigenous peoples around the world have celebrated for thousands of years. On this symbolic day for the first time after a three years pandemic-driven hiatus, Wiikwemkoong will be welcoming visitors to celebrate the Anishinaabek of Odawa Mnis in an atmosphere of cultural and treaty presentations, culinary and music entertainment.

A particular highlight of this year's festivities organized by Wikwemikong Heritage Organization is Wiikwemkoong Annual Cultural Festival (aka the Wiikwemkoong Powwow), which will be taking place at Thunderbird Park on July 30 and 31 within the framework of the 60th Anniversary Celebration. This annual event is considered to be the largest and oldest powwow in Eastern Canada as well as one of the major powwows on the continent. Dancers come from all over North America dressed in their finest regalia, attend this celebration to dance in perfect harmony with the beat of the host drum. It's an amazing sight to see, important knowledge to learn and insightful experience to understand Indigenous identity.

Do not miss a chance to join these celebrations in support of reconciliation initiatives. Take time to acknowledge our cultural diversity, learn more about the rich history, support Indigenous tourism and honour the heritage and valuable contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada. We all have a great deal to do in order to dismantle discrimination, oppression and prejudice that remain entrenched in Canadian society.

Our commitment to knowing true history with all the past wrongs, along with aspirations for equality, non-discrimination, and respect for human rights, are fundamental to rebuilding Indigenous nations and creating a new shared future.