In what promises to be an exciting Indigenous People’s Day (also known as Solidarity Day) after two years of lockdown stopped events countrywide, Ontario will be abuzz with activities and learning opportunities across the province this Tuesday.
On June 21, a national day celebrating Indigenous people in Canada, you will be hard pressed to not find something do in your area to honour the rich history of Indigenous people in Canada.
-Six Nations is once again hosting its annual celebration that features a free midway for all community members. The event starts at 1 pm at the Six Nations Sports and Cultural Memorial Centre. Music starts at 1 pm. There will a free community bbq of hot dogs, hamburgers, and watermelon. Guests are asked to bring their own drinks. General entry is at Lawrence Jonathan Lane, entry for seniors is at the main gate on Fourth Line. Volunteers are needed. Please email commsofficer@sixnations.ca
-In the evening on June 21, Six Nations is hosting an outdoor screening of Run Woman Run with a chance to meet the cast and crew! Run Woman Run is a poignant film about a single mom who reclaims her power while she trains for a marathon. The screening will be held at The Gathering Place at 8:30 p.m. Volunteers needed as well. Email sncoas@sixnations.ca
-The Brantford Region Indigenous Support Centre (BRISC) will be hosting a smoke dance competition and social on June 21. Registration starts at 2 p.m. Competition from 3 to 4:30 p.m. and social from 5 to 7 p.m. The event is located at Mohawk Park in Brantford. Water and snacks will be available.
-In Mississauga, a Solidarity Day event will be held at Mississauga Celebration Square at 6 p.m.
-The City of Hamilton will host an event featuring drumming, speakers, singing and cake starting at 1 p.m. in front of City Hall.
-Toronto will celebrate Indigenous Day with a star-studded event at Yonge Dundas Square from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a host of talent, including Gary Farmer, Logan States, Jace Martin, Derek Miller, and many more!
-in London, starting at 6 a.m. with a sunrise ceremony, Indigenous Day will be celebrated at The Green (Whortley Village) with food, vendors, singers, dancers, and more.
-St. Catharines is hosting a Land Back unity jam from 4 p.m. to sunset at 250 St. Paul Street.
National Aboriginal Day (now National Indigenous Peoples Day) was announced in 1996 by then-Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through a proclamation declaring June 21 every year as National Aboriginal Day.
