Experience Indigenous culture first-hand at the third annual National Indigenous People’s Day celebration in Airdrie June 21. The event is organized by the Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society and will take place at Nose Creek Regional Park.
Society co-chair Adrian Pruden says this year’s event will include new performances, activities for children and a variety of vendors, as well as teepees, a trapper’s tent and regalia on display.
“June 21 is a day of celebration to recognize the long history, heritage, culture and diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples within Treaty 7 territory and across the nation,” says Pruden. “You will experience Elders’ blessings, prayers and stories, dancing, and singing performances from the Treaty 7 Nations and Métis Nation of Alberta.”
The event is held in partnership with the City of Airdrie. Last year’s celebration attracted more than 500 people and Pruden says it was very educational for those unfamiliar with the various cultures within Treaty 7 and the Métis Nation.
“Airdrie has a very large Indigenous population spread between First Nations, Inuit and Métis. This event provides our Indigenous citizens the opportunity to celebrate and share their heritage, culture and traditions, as well as renew and build friendships,” he says. “Honouring these traditions not only respects those that came before us, but also assists us in keeping traditions alive.”
The event is free to the public and will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Pruden encourages those from all walks of life to attend and learn about Indigenous culture in Airdrie.
The society is also currently planning a Truth & Reconciliation Day event on Sept. 30, as well as various cultural and educational workshops, Pruden says.
“We plan to continue to work closely to further build our relationships with our First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners and assist where we can, as well as help facilitate relationships within the city,” he says.
For more information, visit circleconnectionsforreconciliation.com.
