Speeches at the Thunder Bay Marina, hosting special guests in class or participating in the pow wow. Our schools were made aware of Aboriginal culture and traditions.
In Geraldton, a first partnership with the Animbiigoo Zaagi igan Anishinaabek community enabled the school to celebrate National Aboriginal Day and the summer solstice. The day took place at Partridge Lake. Students had the chance to learn more about drumming and dancing. It was an unforgettable experience! "Many thanks to Dorothy Rody of AZA for allowing us to experience this Pow Wow with such a welcoming people.
In Dryden, Stephanie Trottier, teacher led a smudging ceremony.
Renowned musician, singer and storyteller Mr. Ron Kanutski visited Immaculate Conception School in Ignace. Students and staff had the opportunity to hear interesting traditional Aboriginal stories, listen to the relaxing sounds of different flutes and accompany the artist as he sang with drums.
"On June 13, 1996, the Governor General of Canada proclaimed June 21 as National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Aboriginal Peoples' Day. It has become a day in the Canadian calendar when Aboriginal peoples have the opportunity to express their great pride in the richness and diversity of their cultures.
For hundreds of years, our rich culture has been shaped by the wisdom and contributions of Aboriginal peoples. Today is a day to celebrate that spirit and culture. Aboriginal peoples are the first peoples and have played an essential role in shaping what we now call Ontario and Canada.
This is an important day for all Canadians to show their appreciation and respect for Aboriginal culture and heritage. From coast to coast to coast, thousands of Canadians participate in the day's activities, building on the legacy of sharing that began in this country generations ago.
What we're sharing here today is helping to ensure that all Canadians, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal alike, develop a common understanding and vision of a better future for generations to come." (excerpt from a speech in French by Alexandra Mauro, leader of school wellness and First Nations, Métis and Inuit issues).
