National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrated in Sioux Lookout

Tim Brody - Editor

Two powwows and a special flag raising marked National Indigenous Peoples Day in Sioux Lookout on June 21. 
That morning, at the Travel Information Centre, Lac Seul First Nation Chief Clifford Bull and Sioux Lookout Mayor Doug Lawrance raised the flag of the Lac Seul First Nation.
Chief Bull called the day one of celebration and a day to recognize the contributions and achievements of First Nations people, “in making Canada such a great country”
Bull referenced Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa’s history making speech on May 28 in the Ontario Legislature, “when he spoke for the first time in his language (Anishininiimowin - Oji-Cree) and asked questions, and to me that was very inspiring to our young people.”
Bull also pointed to the contributions of Lac Seul band members Garnet Angeconeb and Patricia Ningewance, both of whom have been recognized with the Order of Canada, Angeconeb for his work in building bridges between people, and Ningewance for her work in revitalizing and preserving Indigenous language.
Sioux Lookout Mayor Doug Lawrance also referenced Mamakwa’s history making speech stating, “It was a historic occasion when our MPP Sol Mamakwa stood in the Ontario Legislature and for the first time spoke in a language other than English or French, in his own language, Oji-Cree. What a moment of significance that is for so many people in our municipality 
and our area.”
Lawrance shared in his National Indigenous Peoples Day proclamation, “Sioux Lookout is significantly enriched by the many contributions from Indigenous residents, leaders, elders and organizations, including cultural, economic, and artistic enrichment.”
Lawrance further shared, “The Municipality of Sioux Lookout continues to forge positive relationships with First Nations leaders, work with First Nation agencies, collaborate with First Nations partners, and advocate for changes that support reconciliation.”
Lawrance encouraged, “all residents to celebrate together in recognition of the diversity and contributions made to the community of Sioux Lookout by Indigenous people.”
Community members and visitors to town were invited to attend two powwows taking place that day.
The Nishnawbe-Aski Gamik Friendship Centre (NGFC) partnered with Tikinagan Child and Family Services to host a Mini Powwow at the town beach, while the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Centre (SLMHC) partnering with the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) to host Anishinaabe Giizhigan Celebrations featuring a powwow and special guests at the hospital grounds. 
“We are thrilled to be hosting a Mini Powwow at the town beach,” said Ashley Edwards, NGFC Executive Director. “This scenic and spacious location provides the perfect backdrop for celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions.”
“It’s exciting to have the day full of events in Sioux Lookout for community members and visitors to celebrate together,” said Dean Osmond, SLMHC President and CEO. “The day is all about showcasing the diversity and richness of Indigenous history, culture, and contributions.”
“I feel honoured to speak from my heart in a kind, respectful, and humble manner, and with gratitude. As I sincerely acknowledge where I stand today, where all are standing here,” he said while addressing those gathered on the hospital grounds.  “We’re on the traditional lands and territory of the Obishikokaang Ojibway Nation, also known as Lac Seul First Nation.”
“Land acknowledgement is about taking action. It is about reconciliation. We must continue to acknowledge all sacred lands and all our Indigenous Nations. In our collective history, Indigenous people and their ancestors have always acknowledged one another’s land and space. A sign of respect. I am hopeful that we continue our journey together in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.”
Treaty #3 Gaakinawataagizod (Councillor) Cheyenne Vandermeer was also present at the celebration at the hospital grounds and shared, “As a nurse practitioner myself, I’m well aware of the value represented here at Meno Ya Win Health Centre. For a time, I worked here and developed important skills and experiences that I now have to use in my role… the services and health infrastructure present here is of great importance to Treaty #3 and our membership and our many neighbouring communities to the north. All of the work that has gone into this institution has made the lives of so many of our citizens that much better… there is always much more work to do but today we should reflect on the successes that we have and Meno Ya Win Health Centre is certainly one of those great successes.” 
Sonia Isaac-Mann, SLFNHA CEO and President, said of partnering with local organizations, “By coming together, we can honour and highlight the culture, traditions, and beauty within the Indigenous communities we serve.” 
Isaac-Mann added, “These collaborations amplify our shared commitment to recognition, respect, and unity, creating a vibrant and inclusive celebration that uplifts Indigenous peoples.”
Isaac-Mann acknowledged the traditional territory of Lac Seul First Nation, which includes Sioux Lookout, and noted National Indigenous Peoples Day was a day to “celebrate and encourage everyone to take the time to learn about the culture and traditions in the Treaty lands on which we live.” 
The four organizations are also planning to expand on National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in Sioux Lookout next year.
The Mini Powwow at the town beach kicked off with a free breakfast at NGFC’s main hall, followed by the opening ceremony and opening drum at the town beach. 
A free BBQ lunch was provided to visitors to the town beach and the hospital grounds.
The celebration at the hospital also included a performance by the Asham Stompers jigging group and comedian Native Pool Boy.