June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada. It’s a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit People.On Saturday June 10, 2023, Kincardine hosts activities to mark the month.
Starting at 9 a.m. in Victoria Park there will be a sunrise ceremony learning circle with Trish Meekins. Come out and learn about the significance of a sunrise ceremony for Indigenous people.
Following the sunrise learning circle, Indigenous crafters and makers will be in Victoria Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. selling beaded art, jewellery, apparel, prints, and more. The market will be a rain or shine event, moving into the theatre of the Kincardine Centre for the Arts if there is rain poor air quality.
From 1 to 3 p.m. children can make crafts as well as listen to storyteller Kristi White. Kristi is an International award-winning Indigenous children’s author who will read about adventures with Jay and Gizmo.
The Kincardine Sunset Quilters are featuring quilts created in honour of residential school survivors in the Kincardine Branch of the Bruce County Public Library. Jaylynn Wolfe, Miss Kettle & Stony Point Junior will be greeting from 1 to 3 p.m. and to talk about the significance of the quilts.
The Municipality of Kincardine in partnership and The Walker House have partnered to host three ground-breaking exhibits from the Legacy of Hope. The displays are meant to create awareness of the residential school system, promote healing, and encourage acts of reconciliation.
The displays will be open from 9 to 5 on June 10th and will be in the community until September 2nd, 2023. Visitors can access the exhibits free of charge.
There are two locations for the Legacy of Hope in Kincardine:
- Youth on Reconciliation – Imagine a Canada Welcome Centre in the Kincardine Centre for the Arts, 707 Queen Street
- Remembering, Honouring, and The Way Forward: 10 Years After the Indian Residential School Apology The Walker House, 235 Harbour Street
- Killing the Indian in the Child: Generations Lost The Walker House, 235 Harbour Street
The Legacy of Hope Foundation aims to increase public awareness about challenges facing Indigenous Peoples. This includes the history and impacts of the residential school system. They also work to address racism, foster understanding, and inspire action to improve the situation of Indigenous Peoples today.
“We are excited to bring the Legacy of Hope exhibits and host activities to demonstrate commitment and inspire actions on the journey to reconciliation,” said Lorie Fioze, Manager of Strategic Initiatives for the Municipality of Kincardine.”
To see a list of activities planned in the Municipality of Kincardine to honour the month, visit www.kincardine.ca/journey-to-reconciliation.
