Indigenous Tours Niagara - Ancestors’ Reflection Trail: Indigenous Ways of Knowing Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Niagara region this fall with LON360’s Indigenous Niagara Experiences. Our unique 2-hour tours, accommodating up to 30 participants, invite you to celebrate the Harvest and honour All Our Relations.
Beginning at the serene Indigenous Unity Garden in Thorold, your journey starts with a traditional welcome circle, setting the tone for an enriching experience. Guided by Elders and knowledge keepers, you'll embark on a curated Indigenous sonic tour, weaving together the sounds of the land with interactive teachings. As you walk along ancient trails, you will gain insight into the natural world, the deep history of the lands, and the wisdom passed down through generations. Each step will offer an opportunity to reflect on Indigenous histories, futures, and the legacies that bind us to the Natural World, reminding us of the responsibilities and gifts we share.
Dates and Times:
Saturday, October 5th, 10am - 12pm & 1pm -3pm
Saturday, October 12th, 10am-12pm
Space is limited – Please reserve your spot by emailing info@lon360.ca .
Pay-What-You-May donations are appreciated and will be accepted at the tour site both before and after the event.
Reawakening: Sounds of the Forest
Join us this fall for "Reawakening: Sounds from the Forest" at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, where guests will celebrate the harvest and honour all our relations through a 90-minute immersive sonic trail walk and live concerts under the stars.
The journey begins with a traditional welcome circle, followed by a guided walk along the ancient Forest Frolic Trail. Led by Nokomis Cindilee, guests will experience the sounds of the land and stories that connect us to Indigenous histories and future generations.
Following the trail walk on Saturday, Sept 21, enjoy a concert under the stars with a powerful performance from TRIBZ. Led by Juno Award-winning musician Errol Starr, TRIBZ combines R&B, blues, reggae, pop, and rock to spread messages of love, hope, and empowerment.
EVENT DATES & TIMES
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Sonic Trail Walk: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Live concert featuring TRIBZ: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
Rain Date: Sunday, September 22, 2024
Sunday, October 6, 2024
Sonic Trail Walk: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Rain or shine.
LOCATION: Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, 3292 Sixth Ave, Lincoln, Ontario.
Ticket Information:
Tickets start at $25 per person. Purchase here.
Advance registration is required as space is limited.
In case of inclement weather, updates will be provided to registered participants in advance.
All proceeds from this event will support Indigenous-led initiatives and programming in the Niagara Peninsula watershed, helping to preserve and celebrate Indigenous cultural teachings and traditions.
Every Child Matters Special Event at the Unity Garden
Join us for a special Every Child Matters event at the Unity Garden on September 14th!
See below for the full schedule. All are welcome.
10:00am - Opening TRC Circle at the Unity Garden
10:15 - 12:30 Painting Rocks & Colouring Station. Honor the Stolen Children with Michele-elise
10:15 - 12:30 Indigenous Drop-in Library hosted by Thorold Library
10:15 - 10:45 Family Storytelling with Carrissa
10:15 - 11:00 De Dwa Da Dehs Nyes Youth Drum sharing drop-in Teachings
10:45 - 11:15 Interdependence of flora & fauna workshop with Raven
11:15 - 12:00 Sunflower Teachings - Seed Gathering & Exchange with Carrissa
12:15 - 12:45 De Dwa Da Dehs Nyes Youth Drum Circle at Unity Garden
12:45 - 1:00 Closing TRC Circle at Unity Garden
STRAWBERRY MOON FESTIVAL 2024
Join us for a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage, storytelling, and the interconnectedness of all beings at this year’s Strawberry Moon Festival on Saturday, June 29! This year’s festival will feature the Smoke Dance Competitions, live performances by Robert “Freightrain” Parker, Tonemah (Kiowa/Comanche/Tuscarora), and Geneviève Gros-Louis from the Huron-Wendat Nation, an artisan market, workshops and more. This year’s festival is free to attend. Visit artpark.net for more info
Featured Artists:
Plasticiens Volants, France in collaboration with: Peter Jamison (Seneca Nation, Heron Clan) and Kyle Joedicke, (Cayuga Nation, Turtle Clan).
Choreography and stage direction by: Plasticiens Volants and Michele-Elise Burnett (Métis Nation/Algonquin, Bear Clan), Artpark Indigenous Arts Producer.
New live score and performance by Genevieve Gros-Louis, Huron-Wendat violinist, film composer (National Geographic's Life Below Zero; preluding the premiere of Martin Scorsese's film Killers of the Flower Moon at Cannes Film Festival).
Performances by Haudenosaunee Singers & Dancers, Kehala & Jordan Smith, Tonemah, & Perry Ground.
Smoke Dance Competition.
Indigenous Market
Interactive teachings, dance and lacrosse.
THE LAUNCH OF “REKINDLING ALL OUR RELATIONS”
Rekindling All Our Relations – An Indigenous Audio Tour of the Niagara Glen was curated by Indigenous community member Michele-Elise Burnett, audio-engineered by Indigenous community member William Reich and supported by the Niagara Parks Foundation. Both Burnett and Reich are Metis citizens of Ontario with Algonquin roots and are members of the Bear Clan.
This self-guided tour is a mix of traditional and bespoke musical creations portraying lessons and stories through an Indigenous lens. Free for the public, immerse yourself in Indigenous teachings focused on cultivating a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the spectacular natural environment of the Niagara Glen.
The Circle: Featuring Leah Shenandoah, DnA & Eroll Starr and Donny Hill of Tribz
This edition of The Circle will feature the talents of Leah Shenandoah, DnA, as well as Eroll Starr and Donny Hill of Tribz. The Circle is curated by Michele-Elise Burnett. This performance of The Circle will take place in the beautiful 304-seat Recital Hall with the performers on stage.
The Circle: Indigenous Singer-Songwriters in the Round was conceived to offer a deeply intimate musical encounter for both artists and attendees. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture, The Circle embraces lyrical storytelling to foster reconciliation, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the nation's complex history, all through the voices of Indigenous singer-songwriters.
Serving as a platform to amplify and empower emerging and established Indigenous talents, The Circle provides a space where authentic Indigenous voices share the stories behind their songs. By introducing Indigenous music to a broader audience, The Circle aims to raise awareness and promote the remarkable talent within Indigenous communities.
In contrast to conventional stages, The Circle offers a unique and intimate musical experience, providing a "behind-the-music" concert spotlighting Indigenous artists. This gathering of Indigenous singer-songwriters invites listeners into a shared space where they take turns sharing their songs and the stories behind them.
These stories traverse a spectrum of emotions—from poignant and somber to humorous and playful. Regardless of the narrative or melody, The Circle's "raw as originally written" unplugged concerts foster a profound sense of community, sharing, and healing, leaving audiences uplifted and captivated by the magic of Indigenous lyrics and storytelling.
“A beautiful and intimate weaving of stories and songs.” — Samantha, Audience Member
Featured Artists:
Leah Shenandoah M.F.A, B.S., is a Wolf Clan Member of the Onyo’ta:aká: – Oneida Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. She is an indigenous scholar, artist, activist and musician currently enrolled as an Apparel Design Ph.D. Candidate at Cornell University. Shenandoah combines indigenous methodologies, material culture and activism to create a space of protection, comfort and healing through her work.. Her original compositions have received national and regional recognition. Shenandoah’s debut album, Spectra with producer JJ Boogie from Arrested Development, received a Native American Music Award for “Best Debut Album” and “Best Alternative Album” from the Syracuse Area Music Awards.
Building a creative life together for almost 25 years, Doug Boudreau and April Mitchell-Boudreau, DnA happily blend family, music, and their successful handmade jewellery business, Lofttan. Doug, a Juno-nominated multi-instrumentalist with Acadian roots, and April, an artist with Haudenosaunee roots, embody the spirit of the two-row wampum for mutual respect, peace and friendship (plus a whole lot of love!). On and off the stage, their lives harmonize, creating an intimate and authentic acoustic musical experience featuring their heartfelt originals and covers of other artists.
Tribz is an adult contemporary band that is rooted in R&B/blues, reggae, pop, and rock Fusion. We quickly realized how eclectic and different our music is because of our individual diverse backgrounds. It also reflects our common values as in we are all from different T R I B Z but able to come together as One unit to bring the message of Love, Hope, and Empowerment to the Men and Women around the World.
Errol Star was born in Jamaica with African and Arakaks-Tainos ancestry. He eventually moved to Canada where his musical career soared. He is a Juno Award winner, recipient of the Socan Songwriter of the Year award, Q107 Toronto Music Award winner and Canadian Black Music Award winner.
On bass is Six Nations Mohawk tribe member Donny Hill. Recorded and toured with Juno winner Murray Porter, he played the very first Rez Blues show, and has shared the stage with Big Sugar, Blue Rodeo, and the cast of RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked the World.
Click here to download all artist bios.
PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN
All tickets are subject to HST.
This performance is sponsored by Hatch Ltd.
Thorold Indigenous Unity Garden Opening
Join us on April 13th for the Thorold Indigenous Unity Garden Opening Ceremony! Join Michele-Elise Burnett & Natalie Blueraven as we welcome in Spring and awaken Unity from her winter sleep. We will start with taking straw off garden beds. All are Welcome to join with good hearts & minds. Bring Drums, shakers & garden gloves. Cedar tea provided.
Date: April 13th 1-3pm
Location: Mel Swart Gibson Lake, Thorold
The Circle — Featuring Leah Shenandoah, DnA & Eroll Starr and Donny Hill of Tribz
This edition of The Circle will feature the talents of Leah Shenandoah, DnA, as well as Erroll Starr and Donny Hill of Tribz. The Circle is curated by Michele-Elise Burnett.
The Circle: Indigenous Singer-Songwriters in the Round was conceived to offer a deeply intimate musical encounter for both artists and attendees. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture, The Circle embraces lyrical storytelling to foster reconciliation, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the nation's complex history, all through the voices of Indigenous singer-songwriters.
Serving as a platform to amplify and empower emerging and established Indigenous talents, The Circle provides a space where authentic Indigenous voices share the stories behind their songs. By introducing Indigenous music to a broader audience, The Circle aims to raise awareness and promote the remarkable talent within Indigenous communities.
In contrast to conventional stages, The Circle offers a unique and intimate musical experience, providing a "behind-the-music" concert spotlighting Indigenous artists. This gathering of Indigenous singer-songwriters invites listeners into a shared space where they take turns sharing their songs and the stories behind them.
These stories traverse a spectrum of emotions—from poignant and somber to humorous and playful. Regardless of the narrative or melody, The Circle's "raw as originally written" unplugged concerts foster a profound sense of community, sharing, and healing, leaving audiences uplifted and captivated by the magic of Indigenous lyrics and storytelling.
“A beautiful and intimate weaving of stories and songs.” — Samantha, Audience Member
Featured Artists:
Leah Shenandoah M.F.A, B.S., is a Wolf Clan Member of the Onyo’ta:aká: – Oneida Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. She is an indigenous scholar, artist, activist and musician currently enrolled as an Apparel Design Ph.D. Candidate at Cornell University. Shenandoah combines indigenous methodologies, material culture and activism to create a space of protection, comfort and healing through her work.. Her original compositions have received national and regional recognition. Shenandoah’s debut album, Spectra with producer JJ Boogie from Arrested Development, received a Native American Music Award for “Best Debut Album” and “Best Alternative Album” from the Syracuse Area Music Awards.
Building a creative life together for almost 25 years, Doug Boudreau and April Mitchell-Boudreau, DnA happily blend family, music, and their successful handmade jewellery business, Lofttan. Doug, a Juno-nominated multi-instrumentalist with Acadian roots, and April, an artist with Haudenosaunee roots, embody the spirit of the two-row wampum for mutual respect, peace and friendship (plus a whole lot of love!). On and off the stage, their lives harmonize, creating an intimate and authentic acoustic musical experience featuring their heartfelt originals and covers of other artists.
Tribz is an adult contemporary band that is rooted in R&B/blues, reggae, pop, and rock Fusion. We quickly realized how eclectic and different our music is because of our individual diverse backgrounds. It also reflects our common values as in we are all from different T R I B Z but able to come together as One unit to bring the message of Love, Hope, and Empowerment to the Men and Women around the World.
Errol Star was born in Jamaica with African and Arakaks-Tainos ancestry. He eventually moved to Canada where his musical career soared. He is a Juno Award winner, recipient of the Socan Songwriter of the Year award, Q107 Toronto Music Award winner and Canadian Black Music Award winner.
On bass is Six Nations Mohawk tribe member Donny Hill. Recorded and toured with Juno winner Murray Porter, he played the very first Rez Blues show, and has shared the stage with Big Sugar, Blue Rodeo, and the cast of RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked the World.
Click here to download all artist bios.
PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN
All tickets are subject to HST.
This performance is sponsored by Hatch Ltd.
Tending the Earth—Gardening for the Future: St. Catharine's Blooms
Garden City Gardeners Presents
Lorraine Johnson — Writer, Editor & Community Advocate
Topic: Tending the Earth—Gardening for the Future
“Lorraine Johnson has been one of the most constant and helpful advocates of putting native
plants back into the garden.” (from the book A History of Canadian Gardening, by Carol Martin,
published in 2000).
Lorraine is a writer, editor and community advocate who, when pressed to describe what
unifies her work, has settled on the term cultivation activist.
The author of numerous books on growing native plants, gardening for pollinators, restoring habitat, and producing
food in cities, Lorraine’s work focuses on people and communities growing plants, ecological health, and connection to
nature and to each other. Through her books, articles and community projects, she strives to advance the understanding
that everything and everyone is connected and that, through our actions, we all have a role to play in making this
world a better place for all life. She’s a little bit earnest, but, she hopes, in a good way.
Please go to the Garden City Gardeners website stcatharinesblooms.com | horticultural society | P. O. Box 29013 Carlton, St. Catharines, ON, Canada L2R 7P9 for a list of her excellent books.
Honest Harvest at the Unity Garden
Step into the heart of Honest Harvest at the Unity Garden! 🌻🏵️
Join us on Saturday, October 14th, from 10am-2pm for a day filled with enriching activities and heartfelt connections. 🧡
🎭 Special Performance: Immerse yourself in the captivating tales from internationally renowned traditional Haudenosaune Storyteller Perry Ground.
🌿 Master Plant Medicine Teaching with Audra Maloney
🌻 Seed Saving Workshop of Sunflowers and Marigolds with Natalie Blueraven
🍂 Create Your Own Medicine Tie with Michele-Elise, Audra, and Blueraven
🎶 Singing and Drumming
🛍️ Vendors
This event promises a day of learning, creativity, and commUnity. Let's celebrate the abundance of the harvest season together! 🍁✨
The Circle: Honouring Sisters in Spirit
A musical showcase of emerging and established Indigenous artists making waves on the scene, curated by Celebration of Nations Artistic Director Michele-Elise Burnett.
This special edition of The Circle will take place on Sisters in Spirit Day, an annual day to honour and remember the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people, and to support grieving families and community members. Following the Sisters in Spirit walk, which begins at St. Catharines City Hall at 5pm, all are welcome to join The Circle where two formidable artists will share their gifts in Robertson Theatre.
Featured artists:
Geneviève Gros-Louis Salamone, a renowned violinist, film composer and producer from the Huron-Wendat Nation, has gained global acclaim for her exceptional talents. Despite childhood trauma, she fearlessly uses her platform to shed light on mental health, women facing sexual violence, and challenges Indigenous communities confront. With a violin performance degree and Indigenous studies background from McGill University, Geneviève composes captivating film scores, performs globally with her mesmerising violin, and produces award-winning music at Wendat Records. Her music has graced esteemed events like Cannes Film Festival, Paris Fashion Week, and Wendake International Pow Wow, captivating audiences with her cultural storytelling.
“It felt so special and very Indigenous to all be in that circle together. So much Medicine! Much preferred over a show that plays AT you, this show included everyone to make that Medicine!” - April, audience member
“Loved it! Thank you for encouraging me to seek and discover!” - audience member
PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN
All tickets are subject to HST.
This performance is sponsored by Hatch Ltd.
Otinichick : Taken
Join us for a special Truth & Reconciliation event, Otinichick : Taken, a proposed multi-media touring installation addressing the legacy of the Indigenous residential schools, day schools, the 60’s Scoop, and failed child welfare policies.
Friday, September 29th, 2023
11 AM – 3 PM
Wabano Centre, 299 Montreal Rd.
Presenters include:
Survivors
Sixties Scoop Network
Île-à-la-Crosse Boarding Schools
Métis Nation Alberta – Truth & Reconciliation
Food and refreshments will be served. This event is open to the public.
Reawakening All of Our Senses
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Niagara Folk Arts Festival, and Kakekalanicks Consulting have partnered on a unique and specially programmed evening to engage in learning and reflection. Set within the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Escarpment and Carolinian Forest, this event offers programming that will bring guests closer to their roots while reflecting on Indigenous histories, knowledge, and futures in Niagara.
Spend time reawakening your spirit in the natural world with immersive Indigenous cultural programming under the stars. Featuring interactive storytelling, music, and dancing, Stories by the Fire will ignite your sense of place, purpose and connections.
Proceeds contribute towards Indigenous-led initiatives and programming in Niagara.
Saturday, Sept. 23: Indigenous Stories by the Fire, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: $25 per person
Limited capacity available
Purchase tickets here: https://www.showpass.com/2023reawakening/
Celebration of Nations 2023
Celebration of Nations, the Niagara region’s highly regarded gathering of indigenous arts, culture and tradition has announced two marquee concerts as part of its hybrid edition of in-person programming at the FirstOntario performing arts centre as well as virtual offerings from 8 – 10 September 2023.
Indigenous Ways of Knowing & Garden Nurturing
Bid farewell to August with us on August 26th from 10am to 12pm with some garden nurturing and Indigenous ways of knowing 🪴
Remember to bring your gardening tools and keep water and snacks nearby. Allow your drum or shaker to join in the harmony. 🎶🥁Above all, come with an open mind and an open heart, ready to learn, connect, and foster community growth. 💚✨
Meet our passionate gardening expert, Natalie Blueraven, with a warm smile and abundant knowledge. 😊🌸
Embrace the joy of unity and nature's embrace. See you there! 🌻🌈
Trail of Treaties @ Lewiston Art Festival 2023
Welcome to Trail of Treaties & Treaty Talks
Curated by Artpark’s Indigenous Producer, Michele-Elise Burnett - Métis/Algonquin
Program Collaborator Professor Richard Hamell - adoptive into Seneca
Program Collaborator Dr. Joe Stahlman - Tuscarora
You will embark on an immersive and engaging audio/visual journey of Five Wampum Belts which have had a great impact on the lands you walk on here today. As you travel down the Trail of Treaties you will discover each Treaty through the Indigenous Lens with Dr. Joe Stahlman - Tuscarora Nation interpretive descriptions and narrations. We encourage you to listen via QR Code and ready each of the five Wampum Belt backgrounds and stamp your commemorative Trail of Treaties Passport Booklet once completed. You are invited to visit Professor Richard D. Hamell, and Dr. Joe Stahlman at the Gazebo to ask questions on the Treaties, discover one of largest Wampum Display in the USA, learn howto making a wampum bead with tools of the time and upon completion of engaged with all 6 Wampum Belts stations, guest will have the opportunity to create their own “The Edge of the Woods” wampum strand (while supplies last) during the Lewiston Art Festival.
Each day at 1pm join Dr. Joe Stahlman for Treaty Talks at the Gazebo.
Enjoy the Lewiston Art Festival and the Indigenous Programming which has been proudly brought to you by Artpark.
Spring Awakens
Join us as we celebrate and honor Mother Earth along with May's Flower Moon, and partake in a special reawakening and renewal ceremony at the Native American Peace Garden in the lower park (S. 4th St. entrance)
Visit https://www.artpark.net/ for more details
Thorold's Indigenous Unity Garden
Come join us in celebrating Mother Earth Day by welcoming the new Indigenous Unity Garden to her new home at Mel Swart Park. This family event will be filled with traditional songs, dances, and teachings as we peel back her blanket of snow anc prepare her for the growing season. All ages are welcome! Please bring your own gardening tools should you wish to partake in getting your hands in the soil!
RSVP TO UNITYGARDEN@ONETHOROLD.CA or ONETHOROLD.CA
THE CIRCLE: Indigenous Songwriters In The Round
The Circle: Indigenous Songwriters in the Round, features a gathering of established and emerging Indigenous singer/songwriters each taking turns sharing their songs and the stories behind them in a “raw as originally written,” unplugged concert. Featuring:
Twin Flames | Recent winners of the 2022 Canadian Folk Music Awards for Vocal Group of the Year and Indigenous Songwriters of the Year, Twin Flames will amaze and inspire you with their powerful musicality and storytelling. Indie rock, synth rock, and folk-pop are just a few of the ways critics have tried to label the music of Twin Flames. Using unique sounds, Indigenous Spirit flutes, traditional drums and western instruments, synthesizing harmonies, Twin Flames for a truly unique show.
Nicole Joy-Fraser | Nicole Joy-Fraser (Mixed Settler/ Dene Zaa, Nehiyaw, Métis-Horse Lake First Nation) began formal vocal training at the age of ten with the late Philipina-Canadian Opera Star, Eleanor Calbes, who had her competing in Kiwanis Music Festivals, taking Royal Conservatory exams and singing and dancing in the Mississauga community theatre group now known as City Centre Productions. She eventually found her love for choral music as a teenager singing second alto in The Toronto Mendelssohn Youth Choir, touring Italy, recording John Rutter’s “The Magic of Christmas'' album for CBC, and became a featured concert soloist in “Broadway Spectacular” at The Roy Thompson Hall.
Tonemah | Award-winning musician Tonemah is Kiowa, Comanche and Tuscarora. He has recorded 10 award-winning albums, of which include his well-known hit singles “Pow Wow Snag” and “Rezzylicious”. His songs are filled with thought provoking metaphors and are sharp with emotion and humor that makes his music easy to relate to. Tonemah has won and been nominated numerous times for Best Folk Recording, Best Male Artist, Songwriter of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Rock Album by the Native American Music Awards, Indian Summer Music Awards and First Americans in the Arts, and for Best International Artist by the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Awards. His album Welcome to Your Rainy Day was called a “masterpiece” by Whispering Wind Magazine.
All Tickets: Pay-What-You-Can including FREE | For more information or group rates, please contact ANDREA BOITOR, Business & Partnership Associate 905-688-5601 x3616 aboitor@firstontariopac.ca
The Circle: Indigenous Song Writers in the Round
The Circle: Indigenous Songwriters in the Round, features a gathering of established and emerging Indigenous singer/ songwriters each taking turns sharing their songs and the stories behind them in a "raw as originally written," unplugged concert.
The Circle features - Twin Flames, Tonemah and Nicole Joy-Fraser
All Tickets: Pay-What-You-Can including FREE! For more information or group rates, please contact ANDREA BOITOR, Business & Partnership Associate 905-688-5601 ×3616 aboitor@firstontariopac.ca
1st Annual Native Fall Harvest Celebration
On Saturday, October 22, from 1pm-4pm, Artpark presents the 1st Annual Native Fall Harvest Celebration of thanks with traditional songs, dance, harvest storytelling, Lacrosse workshop, interactive activities and a Corn Husk Doll workshop.
There will also be traditional foods, beading demonstrations and an interactive native marketplace - just in time for the holiday season.
We will celebrate together in gratitude and give thanks to every living thing around for helping us live through sacrificing themselves to be food and clothing for us.
We celebrate the harvest of our Three Sisters: the corn, bean and Squash, the fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, fish, small game and other foods. We celebrate our ancestors' knowledge and their planting strategy practiced as we prepare Mother Earth for her blanket of snow and her time to replenish.
Guests will see continuous demonstrations throughout the day of unique crafts and skills at the vendors booths.
Admission is free.
Native American Harvest Celebration Activities Timeline: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
1:00pm | Preparing the Garden for her time of rest - Smudging with the medicines for those who wish to do so. Offering tobacco to the garden - all can participate.
1:20pm | Official Welcome Address with Jordan Smith.
1:30pm | Offer a Song and a dance of gratitude to Mother Earth and the plant world to help prepare the garden for her blanket of snow.
1:45pm | Harvest Teaching/Storytelling to Celebrate Mother Earth by Perry Ground.
1:55pm | Friendship Round Dance all participants may join in.
2:00pm | Weed and turn-over the soil so our Community Garden will be ready for her rest period.
2:00pm - 4:00 pm | Create a harvest pony-bead wampum strand, visit the largest Wampum Display in America and try drilling a wampum shell with Richard Hamell.
2:00pm - 3:00 pm Back by popular demand Lacrosse workshop! | Join Perry Ground in the Creator’s Game - Lacrosse workshop. Learn the meaning of the creators game from the Indigenous lens while working on several Lacrosse techniques through various activities.
2:15pm - 3:00pm | Corn Husk Dolls Session I (Open to 7 registrants) pre- register @ michele-elise-burnette@artpark.net
Corn Husk Dolls Workshop - Create your own and learn the teaching of the Corn Husk Dolls and the importance of the Harvest.
3:15pm - 4pm | Corn Husk Dolls Session II (Open to 8 registrants) pre- register @ michele-elise-burnette@artpark.net
Corn Husk Dolls Workshop - Create your own and learn the teaching of the Corn Husk Dolls and the importance of the Harvest.
Reawakening All Our Relations - Event Registration
Reawaken your spirit in the natural world, with immersive trail walks with Indigenous Elders and outdoor educators and close this weekend with a story walk and ancestor’s reflection.
You don’t want to miss this Indigenous-led, authentic, and unique weekend to experience the natural world around us.
All events take place at Ball's Falls Conservation Area, Lincoln, ON.
EVENT DATES:
Sunday, October 16
360' STORY WALK AND ANCESTOR'S REFLECTIONS
3:30 – 5:30 pm
(50 person limited capacity)
This incredible afternoon program begins around a clean fire, and takes families on a guided walk along natural trails, stopping along the way to experience outdoor exhibits of great significance. Led by Indigenous Elder Dave Labbé and knowledge keepers, families will learn and reflect on Indigenous histories, futures and legacies. The evening closes by the fire with closing teachings and messages to lead us in Truth and Reconciliation.
PARKING LOCATION: Ball's Falls Conservation Area, Centre for Conservation, 3292 Sixth Avenue, Lincoln, ON, L0R 1S0
Your registration contributes to to Indigenous cultural programming across Niagara.
ABOUT REAWAKENING ALL OUR RELATIONS
This is a unique Indigenous-led and specially programmed weekend to engage in learning and reflection, sport and guided walks in nature, presented by local Indigenous artists, storytellers and knowledge keepers. Set within the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Escarpment and Carolinian forest, families can choose from several different program offerings over the weekend that bring them closer to our roots, reflecting on Indigenous histories, knowledges and futures here in Niagara. Proceeds from this weekend will support the Indigenous cultural programming within Niagara.
REAWAKENING ALL OUR RELATIONS EVENT AT BALL’S FALLS
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Niagara Folk Arts Festival, and Kakekalanicks Consulting have partnered on a unique and specially programmed weekend to engage in learning and reflection, sport and guided walks in nature, presented by local Indigenous artists, storytellers and knowledge keepers.
This three-day event will take place from Friday, Sept. 23 to Sunday, Sept. 25, at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area. Set within the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Escarpment and Carolinian, guests can choose from several different program offerings over the weekend, that bring them closer to their roots, while reflecting on Indigenous histories, knowledges and futures in Niagara.
Friday, Sept. 23: 360 Story Walk at Ball’s Falls, 6-8 p.m.
A guided twilight Two-Row nature walk led dually by local Elder Dave Labbé and an outdoor educator, sharing knowledge of the natural world, history and ecology of the forest. The evening will open with a clean fire and smudging, and close in reflection at the fireside.
Saturday, Sept. 24: Cultural Roots of Lacrosse and Values of Stick Making, 12-2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.
An interactive workshop by FUSE Lacrosse, to engage in meaningful dialogue and create a space of mutual understanding to learn the origins and Cultural Significance of Lacrosse and the Values of Stick Making, and play some game fundamentals.
Saturday, Sept. 24: Indigenous Stories by the Fire, 6-8 p.m.
Gather around a clean fire with Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers, artists and storytellers and be immersed in powerful messages and reflections of Turtle Island. Traditional dancers and artists share their art and messages with guests in the evening gathering within a starlit natural setting.
Sunday, Sept. 25: 360 Story Walk and Ancestors’ Reflection, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
This incredible afternoon program begins around a clean fire, and takes guests on a guided walk along natural trails, stopping along the way to experience outdoor exhibits of great significance. Led by Indigenous Elder Dave Labbé, and knowledge keepers, guests will learn and reflect on Indigenous histories, futures and legacies. The evening closes by the fire with teachings and messages to lead into National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.
There is limited capacity for each event and advanced registration is required to attend. Admission to a single event is $25, and full weekend programming is $60 (choice of up to three events selected at time of purchase).
All proceeds will support the Niagara Folk Arts Festival and Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation. By supporting this event, you are contributing to Indigenous cultural programming across Niagara. Funding provided by the Government of Ontario.
Celebration of Nations
CELEBRATION OF NATIONS, THE NIAGARA REGION’S HIGHLY REGARDED GATHERING OF INDIGENOUS ARTS, CULTURE AND TRADITION HAS ANNOUNCED TWO MARQUEE CONCERTS AS PART OF ITS HYBRID EDITION OF IN-PERSON PROGRAMMING AT THE FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE AS WELL AS VIRTUAL OFFERINGS FROM 9 – 11 SEPTEMBER 2022.
CELEBRATION OF NATIONS HIGHLIGHTS Please visit www.celebrationofnations.ca for the full schedule.
Celebration of Nations Sacred Fire | September 9-11from 6:00am - 7:30pm by Fred Bowering, Brian Kon
NFB Animated Shorts | September 10 from 9:00am - 11:00am
13 Moon Hand Drum (Dewegun) Workshop | September 10 from 11:30am - 3:30pm by Jackie Labonte and Oliver Nobosin
Her Moccasins Talk: The Red Dress Exhibit | September 10 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Nokomis 215+ Moccasin Project Workshop| September 10 from 3:00pm - 6:00pm
HIGHLIGHT KAKEKALANICKS EVENT : The Red Dress Exhibit: If Only These Dresses Could Tell Their Story | September 10 from 3:00pm - 10:00pm and September 11 from 10AM - 8 PM
Buffy Sainte-Marie with Shawnee Kish and Strong Water Singers | September 10 from 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Talking Turtle Stories with Perry Ground | September 11 from 10:00am - 10:30am
Pottery Workshop with Brenda Hill | September 11 from 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Haudenosaunee Stories with Perry Ground | September 11 from 3:00pm - 3:45pm
***Drums Across Canada*** another Kakekalanicks initiative | September 11 from 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Returning to Celebration of Nations this year, Drums Across Canada is a live and virtual broadcast event that will unite drum circles from eight different performing arts venues paired with Indigenous drumming groups across the country in traditional call and response
The Red Dress Exhibit as part of the Celebration of Nations is proud to receive support from the Government of Canada’s Tourism Relief Fund. Indigenous TO and Fed Dev Ontario helped us to bring these profound exhibits to the Niagara region.
THE RED DRESS EXHIBIT: IF ONLY THESE DRESSES COULD TELL THEIR STORY
Based on the 13 Grandmother Moons and the cycle of the women, The Red Dress Exhibit will feature stories of 13 Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) from 13 Indigenous Peoples in WNY and Niagara whose loved ones fell victim to these crimes. This immersive and poignant exhibit of 13 empty Red dresses hanging from trees tells their untold story. The exhibit is intended to increase awareness for the epidemic of the ongoing horrific systemic racial crimes targeting Indigenous women and girls; to remember the lost lives of the victims; to teach; to give Indigenous women a voice; to inspire a new cross-cultural generation based on inclusivity, compassion, love and; to collectively offer the MMIWG our love, gratitude create a safe, nurturing and welcoming environment for Indigenous Peoples. With Native women being victims of murder more than 10 times the national average, this exhibit is about empathic LOVE
Each Red dress will be as unique and beautiful as the MMIWG it represents and the ribbons sewn on the dresses will be the keepers of their story. This three-day exhibit will include a downloadable audio produced documentary tour, narrative signage, public participation in a large loom textile blanket creation, and a special opening night intimate acoustic concert by The Circle - featuring Indigenous and allied musicians, Kenny Lee Lewis, Linda McKenzie, Tonemah and others in an intimate setting sharing the story behind their MMIWG songs.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
September 2nd 1-8 PM | OPENING DAY
Dresses will be on display during the day,
Starting at 1pm people can join Perry Ground Onondaga Turtle Clan educator and renown traditional haudenosaunee storyteller to participate in creating a unique MMIWG2S wampum belt which will be gifted to the exhibit at the the opening Ceremony
Opening ceremonies will commence at 6 PM followed by an intimate, unplugged concert at 7pm called The Circle with Kenny Lee Lewis, Linda Mackenzie, Tonemah and special guests
September 3rd 1-6 PM
The dresses will be on display 1-6 PM
Starting at 1 PM of the MMIWG2S Wampum belt by Dr Richard Hamill, Historian, treaty and wampum educator who holds the largest Wampum Belt Display in North America. He will also have MMIWG2S artifacts on display and will share his teachings during his workshop
Heart Berry Bead workshop and teachings of living from the heart with Mary Clause and storytelling with Edwin Printup
September 4th 1-4 PM | CLOSING DAY
The dresses will be on display 1-4 PM
Closing of the exhibit at 4 PM with a closing ceremony and preparing the dresses to travel to Canada for Celebration of Nations Gathering September 9th-11th. www.celebrationofnations.caPainting by Jill Lunn.
Strawberry Moon Festival
ARTPARK presents the 3rd ANNUAL STRAWBERRY MOON FESTIVAL featuring BLUE RODEO, PAMYUA, a Tribute to JOANNE SHENANDOAH, SMOKE DANCE COMPETITION, INDIGENOUS ARTISTS & more ON June 18 in the Artpark Lower Park, Amphitheater
In its 3rd year, Artpark’s Strawberry Moon Festival 2022 celebrates the many contributions Native people made in the shaping of our area and the global stage. Built on the Two Row Wampum teachings that promote all Nations walk together in parallel, with respect, compassion, and understanding to cultivate an inclusive community for our shared future, this year’s Festival will be filled with interactive workshops, activities, teachings and a large Native vendor section and food trucks.
For more details please visit: https://www.artpark.net/events/strawberry-moon-festival-1-1
Spring Awakens at Artpark: Re-Boot and Energize
This year Artpark and The Plant Shack are pleased to welcome Grandmother Marie Jones - (Mohawk) who will share the teachings of the Forth Sister, the Sunflower and offer her space in the Native American Peace Garden.
Listening and exchanging with the earth at the Peace Garden, we will offer gratitude and fuel her with nurturing vibrations with songs for a healthy season and welcome the fourth sister, the Sunflowers to our garden. Guests will explore alignments with natural rhythms and patterns of the garden and rekindle our connections to the natural world.
Followed by the interactive “Re-enegize" circle with Artpark's Indigenous art produce, Michele-Elise Burnett and Director of Artpark's Bridges program Cynthia Pegado. In this mindful movement class, participants will focus on connecting their mind, body and spirit with the landscape and becoming one with the Natural World. Mindful movement class is designed to bring awareness to self and movement in space, centring and grounding the body to the Mother the Earth.
June Indigenous Speaker Series with Niagara Parks
Please find all details and dates here! Can’t wait to see you at the Niagara Parks!
https://www.niagaraparks.com/events/event/indigenous-month-speaker-series-2022
Celebration of Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games Torch Relay
Kakekalanicks has curated a unique interactive celebration to welcome the torch of Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games at each of the following locations. Participants will learn different indigenous dance styles and can join in the unity dance to celebrate Niagara 2022 Canada summer games torch relay! We look forward to seeing you over the summer at one of the following locations:
Saturday May 25 - Thorold - Beaverdam Battle Park
Saturday July 3 - Port Colborne - Knoll Park
Saturday July 9 - Wainfleet - behind the Arena
Friday July 15 - West Lincoln - West Lincoln Community Centre (177 West Street, Smithville)
Saturday July 16 - Pelham - Town Hall Park (to be confirmed)
Saturday July 30 - NOTL - Meridian Arena grounds (Virgil)