Celebrations are being held today to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD.)
In Chatham, the Maawnjidimi Indigenous Network is holding an event on Eighth Street at the Ska:Na Family Learning Centre, with singing, drumming, Indigenous foods, as well as crafters and other vendors.
Co-facilitator Maureen Geddes says it will be an afternoon and evening filled with activities and fun for all ages.
“Everybody’s welcome to dance along and sing along, drummers will be there. There’s also a children’s activity table and area, the kids can also dance. There’s also a reconcili-ACTION table, there’s different things people can write on and learn about and interact with.”
Geddes says the goal of today’s celebration is to focus on positivity and hope for the future.
“It’s so important that we understand our history better, and not so that we feel guilty about it because we have some pretty awful history, let’s be honest, but this is all about celebrating the strength and the joy and the reclaimed heritage of many of our Indigenous friends,” Geddes says. “It’s wonderful to celebrate that history and learn more about it.”
The NIPD celebration runs from 4-8pm at the Ska:Na Family Learning Centre, 25 Eighth Street in Chatham.
Meantime, a special ceremony is being held at Lambton College this morning to mark the opening of the Indigenous Outdoor Gathering Space.
Officials say the tree-encircled area on the south end of the campus provides opportunities for Indigenous learners and First Nations communities to access and connect with their culture, and will serve as a host site for ceremonies, events, and learning opportunities.
