Kingston celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day

Today, Tuesday, Jun. 21, 2022, Tipi Moza, Kingston Indigenous Languages Nest, Four Directions Indigenous Centre, and the Métis Nation of Ontario are holding events around the city of Kingston to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

According to the Mohawks of the Bay Of Quinte, this is the day that celebrates and recognizes First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures. It is observed on June 21 to recognize the summer solstice, the day of maximum sunlight, and its importance to indigenous peoples.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of the government proclamation by then Governor General Roméo LeBlanc, according to the Government of Canada website. Originally recognized as National Aboriginal Day, on June 21, 2017, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing the intention to rename this day National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Kingston resides on land which is the traditional territory of the Huron Wendat, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee. According to the City of Kingston, tonight, City Hall will be illuminated in orange.

Events to celebrate the day took place at Family and Children’s Services of Frontenac Lennox and Addington, and in City Park, including sacred fires, singing, drumming, dancing and crafting workshops.

Below, take in a performance from the men’s drumming circle, which filled the air with the steady beat of the drum on Tuesday Afternoon.