Northeast to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in more ways than one

Then, at 1:30 p.m. and 1:45 p.m., there will be greetings from special guests, such as Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty, MP Randy Hoback, Mayor Glenn George and many more.

Proceeding that will be entertainment and refreshments, such as dancing, drum circles, a tipi ceremony and much more.

This time will also include the Melfort and District Museum, as they celebrate the grand opening of their newest exhibit, the Indigenous Peoples and Archaeology Building, which will be held from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on the museum grounds.

The program will begin with a Welcoming Drumming Song, greetings from dignitaries from across the province, and stories from the three main families who donated their archaeology collections. These collections span the northeast from Yellow Creek to Pathlow to Bjorkdale.

There will be entertainment throughout the afternoon with dancers and drummers. Refreshments will be served. There will be also guided tours through their Indigenous Peoples & Archaeology Building as well as self-guided tours through their settler village. They will also have demonstrations of flintknapping, beading, drumming and other crafts.

The public is invited and admission is free.

Humboldt

As for Humboldt, the city and the Humboldt Public Art Committee are pleased to announce the installation of a “Reconciliation Mural” on city hall, with a ceremony taking place in Civic Park at 1:30 p.m.

The mural is a collaborative creation by Saskatchewan artist Kevin L. PeeAce and Humboldt youth. PeeAce was born in Kelvington, Sask. and is a member of the Yellow Quill First Nation and Peter Chapman First Nation.

PeeAce took inspiration for the work from conversations with Humboldt youth. Students from all four schools in Humboldt painted portions of the mural. The city and the committee are honoured to have the work of PeeAce in their community.

In a press release sent to northeastnow, those involved spoke about the installation of the reconciliation mural.

“Reconciliation refers to the act of restoring a once harmonious relationship. Joint leadership, trust-building, accountability, and transparency are some of the steps toward reconciliation. It is a privilege and an honour to have this beautiful piece on city hall that symbolizes our commitment to becoming one people united with Mother Earth,” said Mayor Michael Behiel.

“This vibrant, colourful piece on city hall represents the community’s commitment to Reconciliation. Art is a powerful way to share messages that inspire dialogue and the building of new relationships to move forward,” noted Jennifer Fitzpatrick, director of cultural services.

And as for Horizon School Division, they will also be taking part in their own event in Humboldt, which will begin at 9 a.m.

The event will begin with a pipe ceremony led by Knowledge Keeper George GreyBuffalo, followed by the singing of O’ Canada by George Gordon Education Centre students. An Honour Song and Flag Song by the Grey Buffalo Singers will accompany the flag raising. Traditional dance performances and closing remarks will follow guest speakers.

Guests will include Dr. Angelina Weenie, Indigenous education program coordinator with the First Nations University of Canada, Chief Tricia Sutherland of One Arrow First Nation, Rhonda Kayseas, who is a trustee with the Horizon School Division Board of Education and Betty Nippi-Albright, MLA for Saskatoon Centre.

“Our generation, and the generations that will follow, have a responsibility to repair the damage caused during the darkest chapters in our country’s history. It is our responsibility and privilege to learn and understand the truth so that we may work toward reconciliation,” said Kevin Garinger, director of education with Horizon School Division.

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Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter @BenTompkins_8

by Ben Tompkins

Northeast to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in more ways than one

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