What is National Indigenous Peoples Day?

In 1996 the Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day, now widely known as National Indigenous Peoples Day.  In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice as National Indigenous Peoples Day.  For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice being the longest day of the year. 

This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The Canadian Constitution recognizes these three groups as Indigenous peoples.

Although these three groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, traditional practices, teachings, and spiritual beliefs.

The City of Thunder Bay invites residents to participate in various community events happening throughout the city on June 21, 2022, as we celebrate this very important day with or Indigenous, friends, neighbours and families.

Community events

Join us: June 21, Fort William First Nation, Anemki Wajiw Mount McKay. The day will include a pow wow, entertainment, crafters and feast. The event is free, and all are welcome!

Schedule

  • 5:30am Sunrise Ceremony with Elder John Gagnon  (the sun rises at 5:56am)
  • 12pm Opening Ceremonies
  • 1pm Grand Entry
  • 5pm Feast
  • 7pm Pow wow ends & giveaways

View the National Indigenous Peoples Day Poster

Taking part

MC - Ron Kanutski; Arena Director - Patrick (Bunzee) Legarde; Invited Drumps: New Life, Walkint Bear, Shadow Creek & Rocky Boy; Spiritual Advisors - Aaron Therriault & Sheila DeCorte; Spiritual Coordinator - Sean Stevens.

Accessing the mountain

All elders & dancers will be allowed up the mountain in their own vehicles, all other attendees will be required to ride the bus up the mountain. Limited accessibility parking spots available. Please email nadtbay@gmail.com with any questions or if you require further accommodations.

Thank you to the community partners

Enbridge, Fort William First Nation, Resolute, Wasaya, City of Thunder Bay Indigenous Relations Office, TC Energy, Confederation College, Acadia Broadcasting, Staal Utility, Lakehead University, Ontario Power Generation, Hydro One, Lakehead Public Schools, Intercity Shopping Centre, Metis Nation of Ontario Region 2, Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, Bank of Montreal, Englobe, Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, Northern Mat & Bridge, RMYC, TBT Engineering Consulting Group, Thunder Bay Public Library

Maamawe Summer Festival & Showcase

Also don't miss our upcoming Maamawe Summer Festival & Showcase on June 25. 

 

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