Hatters look on as Blood Tribe member Theron Black performs a Grass Dance powwow at Kin Park in 2019. The annual event celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day is back on June 21.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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Aligning with the summer solstice on June 21 – recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day – the longest day of the year has been celebrated by Indigenous people for centuries.
To honour the rich history, traditions, culture and important contributions of Indigenous people, the city is hosting several events and educational opportunities this week.
On Friday the city is holding a two-hour ceremony that will include a blessing from Kainai Elder Charlie Fox and Mayor Linnsie Clark, who will share how Medicine Hat is working to celebrate Indigeneity.
The ceremony runs from 2-4 p.m. in the Helen Beny Lounge at city hall June 21.
A powwow demonstration and teepee display is being planned throughout Kin Park and will include food trucks and free face painting. The authentic teepees are already standing in the park. The city is recommending guests bring a chair or blanket for seating.
“Let us join in acknowledging and celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous history that enriches our community,” says Aaron Nelson, acting director of community development.
Saturday the city is welcoming residents to enjoy local Indigenous vendors, join a drum circle and watch a ribbon skirt fashion show during a block party celebrating Indigeneity at Towne Square.
The free event runs between noon and 4 p.m. June 22 and will include teachings from Fox about proper protocol when meeting an Elder, the significance of his headdress and the presentation of tobacco.
The city is also encouraging residents to visit the large art installation by Heather Shillinglaw that is on display at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre until the end of August.
Shillinglaw, a member of the Cold Lake First Nations, travelled to Medicine Hat in April to lead a blessing ceremony for the ‘In Our Nature’ exhibition that features her piece named ‘Whispers in the Forest.’
More information on other education opportunities can be found online by visiting medicinehat.ca/nipd
