Ceremony planned to honour Indigenous Heritage month

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on June 7, 2025.

June is National Indigenous Heritage Month, and as such, the City of Medicine Hat is pleased to invite the public to attend a National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration event at City Hall on June 20.

At City Hall plaza near the clock tower from 1 to 3 p.m, or within Helen Beny Gibson Lounge in the event of inclement weather, the event will honour the rich history, traditions and cultures, and important contributions of Indigenous peoples in the community.

A teepee will also be set up outside of City Hall on the grass near Finlay Bridge.

“During National Indigenous History Month and on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we honour the enduring presence and profound knowledge of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut’ina, Cree, Sioux, Saulteaux, and the MÃ©tis Nation of Region III,” said Aaron Nelson, Manager of Cultural Experiences and Events with the City of Medicine Hat. “Their stories, traditions, and teachings continue to shape the spirit of this land. Today, and every day, we celebrate the rich cultural mosaic they bring to our shared community and commit to listening, learning, and walking forward together in respect and unity.”

The event will include a land acknowledgement and opening remarks from Managing Director Joe Hutter, opening prayer and smudge by Elder Charlie Fox, an honour song, remarks from Mayor Linnsie Clark, Carlee EaglePlume and Brenda Mercer, a dance presentation from Dobry, Shannon and Dustin Kunka, a flag raising ceremony and reception, with craft and learning circle within the tipi.

Event refreshments will include Bannock, tea, coffee and water. Informal drumming and dancing may continue in the tipi area.