Former professional hockey player and one-time coach of the year, Ted Nolan, will be the keynote speaker at Laurentian University's celebrations for National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Annually observed on or near June 21 because of the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year, the event offers learning opportunities to appreciate the richness and diversity of Canada’s Indigenous peoples, states the university in a release.
This year’s event is hosted in the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre, on Friday, June 20, and begins at 8:45 a.m. with a Sacred Fire, “a deeply meaningful tradition that has been carried through generations,” states the release. “It offers space for healing, reflection, and connection –- not only with each other, but with ancestors, the spirit world, and the Creator.”
In addition to opening and closing remarks by members of Laurentian’s leadership team and a presentation from the Truth and Reconciliation Taskforce, this year’s keynote speaker is Ted Nolan (Ojibwe, Garden River First Nation), former NHL player, coach of the year and international coach and author.
The keynote speech begins at 10:30 a.m.
Nolan will speak about the power of perseverance and how to overcome obstacles by never giving up.
“His message of resilience aligns with the University’s shared vision—to uplift Indigenous voices, foster healing, and move forward together with strength, purpose, and hope,” states the release.
The event will also feature open (welcoming) and closing drum songs led by Paskwa Lightning, Indigenous student and community cultural engagement co-ordinator.
“The welcoming song is rendered to bring people together in a good, wholesome way,” stated Natalie Lacasse, manager of Indigenous strategic community engagement, in the release.
“It is to include everyone gathered together and a part of opening protocol for many Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island, or ‘Shkagamik-Kwe’,” Lacasse continues in the release. “In the Anishnaabe language, this word translates to ‘Mother Earth,’ whereas words in the song translate to ‘we have come together here, this is a good gathering’.”
“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to recognize and honour the remarkable First Nations, Inuit, and Métis academics, staff, and students within our university community,” said Mary Laur, director of the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre.
“Their knowledge, leadership, and contributions are essential to the vibrancy of our academic and cultural life. This day also invites us to celebrate the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Their stories and perspectives deepen our collective understanding and enhance our shared experiences.”
You can find the full agenda for the day here.