Community celebration in Almonte will honour National Indigenous Peoples Day
Mississippi Mills will mark National Indigenous Peoples Day with a full day of events on Saturday, June 21, featuring storytelling, music, dancing, and a community breakfast.
Organized by Mississippi Mills All My Relations in partnership with Ginawaydaganuc Village, the Township of Mississippi Mills, and other supporters, this year’s celebration will take place at two Almonte locations, offering opportunities to gather, learn, reflect, and celebrate.
Morning Event: Pancake Breakfast and Teachings
Time: 8:30 a.m. to noon
Location: John Levi Community Centre, 182 Bridge Street, Almonte
The day begins with a pancake breakfast hosted by Ginawaydaganuc Village. This by-donation event is offered in the spirit of Algonquin teachings that emphasize connection between all living things.
At 10 a.m., Algonquin knowledge keeper Danka Brewer of the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation will share stories and teachings suitable for all ages. Brewer is known for her warm and inclusive approach to cultural education and her deep commitment to the next generation.
Afternoon Celebration: Stories, Music, and Dance
Time: 4:30 to 8 p.m.
Location: Riverfront Park, 321 Spring Street, Almonte
The celebration continues at Riverfront Park with an afternoon of Indigenous storytelling, music, dancing, crafts, and a community barbecue, also by donation. The event will be hosted by Ojibway knowledge keeper John Henry Commanda, Executive Director and Chair of Ginawaydaganuc Village.
Activities will include jingle dance performances, cultural displays, artisan crafts, and interactive opportunities for reflection and dialogue.
Honouring the Summer Solstice and a Legacy of Peace
National Indigenous Peoples Day, first proclaimed in 1996, takes place each year on June 21 to coincide with the summer solstice — a time of spiritual significance for many Indigenous cultures. The day serves as an opportunity to honour the history, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada.
This year’s event is held in honour of the late Algonquin Elder William Commanda, former Chief of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinaabeg and a widely respected spiritual leader. Elder Commanda spent decades promoting intercultural understanding, peace, and environmental stewardship. He was appointed to the Order of Canada and entrusted with three sacred wampum belts of great historical significance.
Community members are invited to attend and take part in this gesture of reconciliation — one rooted in “two-eyed seeing,” where Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives are brought together in mutual respect and shared understanding.
For more information or to get involved, contact Sue Evans at mm.allmyrelations@gmail.com.