The N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre hosts its annual National Indigenous Peoples Day event at the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre June 21.
The event includes opening ceremonies at 12 p.m., a mini pow-wow from 1-4:30 p.m. and evening entertainment from 5-9 p.m. There will also be children's activities during the day.
The musical headliner is Midnight Shine. Bryden Gwiss Kiwenzie, Elijah & The Backburners and JoPo & The RiZe will also be performing.
“We’re a band that is anchored by eloquent lyrics and heartfelt vocals that share a glimpse of life in the far North,” said Adrian Sutherland, lead vocalist for Midnight Shine, in a press release.
“I’m proud to be Cree and where I’m from.”
While Sutherland’s home of Attawapiskat has been the subject of negative media attention, he said he would like to change those perceptions.
“There are many good stories to be told from Attawapiskat and from all over the North,” he said. “I hope we’re one of them.”
The N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre annually hosts the event and concert at Grace Hartman Amphitheatre to foster unity and fellowship among Greater Sudbury residents.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day provides a great opportunity to discover and learn the rich diverse culture and heritage of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people,” said Olivia Parry, National Indigenous Peoples Day Committee Chair.
“This is an event that N’Swakamok and Kina Gbezhgomi (Child/Family Services) are proud to co-ordinate as it brings the city and people together. This year will have great entertainment not to mention great music, food and laughs.
“Our main entertainers Midnight Shine and Adrian Sutherland are an inspiration to many people and are role models who bring hope to people in places where they sometimes have a hard time finding hope.”
Admission is free for all attendees and everyone is welcome to attend.
The N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre is a not-for-profit organization that provides programs and services that help serve the social, cultural and recreational needs of the urban Indigenous in Greater Sudbury.
