Celebrate Anishinaabe Culture with Parks Canada
News Release
National Aboriginal Day programming at Pukaskwa National Park
June 20, 2016 Pukaskwa National Park Parks Canada Agency
In the spirit of Parks Canada’s commitment to developing a system of national heritage places that recognizes the role of Indigenous peoples in Canada and in the traditional use of these special places, Pukaskwa National Park invites visitors to discover and celebrate local Anishinaabe culture on June 21, during the park’s celebration of National Aboriginal Day.
Activities will begin at 9 a.m. outside the Visitor Centre with a sunrise ceremony led by Biigtigong Nishnaabeg community elders. Throughout the day visitors can share stories with community elders at the bannock and tea social, learn about the traditional Anishinaabe uses of medicinal and edible plants and listen to drumming at the park’s new Fire Circle.
Every year on June 21, Canada celebrates National Aboriginal Day, recognizing and celebrating the diverse cultures, unique heritages and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. Parks Canada works with more than 300 Indigenous communities across Canada in conserving, restoring, and presenting Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.
For more information about our events, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pukaskwa and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Quotes
“National Aboriginal Day is an occasion for all Canadians to celebrate and honour the fundamental role that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit have played in shaping our national identity. Pukaskwa National Park will mark the day with activities that reflect the traditions of the local Anishinaabe culture and share with our visitors the importance of this heritage to the region.”
Robin Lessard
Northern Ontario Field Unit Superintendent, Parks Canada
Quick Facts
- Pukaskwa National Park is the only wilderness national park in Ontario, protecting 1878 km2 of ecosystem that features boreal forest and Lake Superior shoreline.
- National Aboriginal Day was announced in 1996 when, in cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day. For generations, many Indigenous Peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.
Associated Links
- 30 -
Contacts
Garth Hardy
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Northern Ontario Field Unit
Parks Canada
807-229-0801 ext.245
Annique Maheu
Visitor Experience Manager
Pukaskwa National Park
Parks Canada
807-229-0801 ext. 227
Search for related information by keyword