City hosts National First Nations, Inuit and Métis celebration June 21

Guelph, Ont., June 11, 2018 – On June 21, the City of Guelph will host a free, family-friendly event in Market Square celebrating First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples of Canada.

Share in this national celebration  from 5:30-8:30 p.m. in Guelph’s Market Square.

“This celebration is a day for Guelph residents, and all Canadians, to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples to our community and communities across our country,” says Stacey Dunnigan, manager of Culture and Tourism with the City of Guelph.

This event offers music, a territorial welcome, drum circles, dancing, as well as food and craft vendors and children’s activities.

Members of the Wiiji Numgumook Kwe, Guelph Women’s Drum Circle, will lead drummers of all ages in a community drum circle and attendees will be invited to participate in a variety of crafts and community art projects while taking in the sights and sounds of the celebration. The event also features the talents of Ascension Harjo, Teen World Hoop Dance Champion.

City staff worked with members of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Grand River Métis Council and local First Nations and Inuit community members to plan the event.

“We welcome everyone to join us on this National day of celebration for Canada’s First Peoples,” says Jennifer Parkinson, President of the Grand River Métis Council. “There will be lots of drumming, dancing, fiddling, food and activities for all ages to enjoy. Marsii (thank you) to everyone who has worked hard planning this celebration and to the City of Guelph for their continued support.”

About the National Celebration

For generations, many First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on June 21  due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.

About Ascension Harjo

Ascension Aton:wa Harjo is a 16-year-old Mohawk, Kickapoo, Seminole from Six Nations, Ontario Canada. Ascension has participated in the closing ceremonies of the 2015 Pan Am Games held in Toronto, the opening ceremonies for the North American Indigenous Games (NIAG), and was the 2018 World Hoop Dance Champion in the teen category.