It was a hot one outside for National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated Friday in Stratford.
The Summer Solstice Ceremony began on Friday at the Falstaff Family Centre, featuring the lighting of the Sacred Fire, a water ceremony, drumming, and singing.
Chi Animikiikaa Big Thunder from the Oneida Nation, Turtle Clan, invites the community to take part in activities for Indigenous People’s Day.
Activities started at 2 p.m. and included a Land Acknowledgement, smudging, the teaching of ‘One Dish One Spoon,’ traditional item sales, and a solidarity walk.
Attendees were encouraged to wear orange or red shirts.
My Stratford Now spoke with Christian Dennis, a knowledge carrier from Sarnia, who shared his perspective on Indigenous People’s Day and its significance to him.
“Indigenous Day is a time where we can focus on the Indigenous people, remember how they have honored their land, and recognize that we share the land with all nations in Canada and North America,” Dennis said.
The Chippewa flautist and storyteller will also be performing Friday night from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Market Square Music.
