Local residents will get the chance to experience First Nations culture during the first-ever See Muskoka Through Our Eyes traditional powwow.
The event is set to take place on June 29 and 30 at Annie Williams Park in Bracebridge.
“Since time immemorial, this geographical area now known as Muskoka has held great significance to the Original Peoples,” reads a letter sent to Bracebridge council last week. The letter was sent by members of the Muskoka Indigenous Collective Powwow Committee, which includes Lynda Nicholson of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, Jacqualeen Beaver of the Six Nations of the Grand River and Christopher Stock of Wahta Mohawk Territory.
The letter requests the Town council waive the fees for park rental.
“This would be tremendously helpful in getting this event up and running and help us in this process of starting a journey together, in a good way, towards truth and reconciliation,” reads the letter.
The group explains that the waterways of the region have served as resting grounds, meeting places, harvesting camps and an area of trade for millennia.
“Annie Williams Park on the shores of the Muskoka River, we feel is the perfect site for our cultures to respectfully come together to celebrate and enjoy See Muskoka Through Our Eyes annual traditional Powwow,” it reads. “There is one common factor that holds true, there is something special about this area known as Muskoka. What greater way to bring us all together to celebrate Indigenous Day, Canada Day and the Summer Solstice in a peaceful and harmonious way.”
Any potential consideration of the fee waiver will need to be brought forward and approved by Town Council.
According to Discover Muskoka, the event will include live entertainment, workshops, demonstrations, speakers, and presentations, as well as artisans and hand-crafters showcasing their work. There will also be a community social event on Saturday night from 7 pm to 10 pm.
Please note that this is a family-friendly event and is alcohol and drug-free. Only service animals will be allowed on the premises.
The event will run on Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.
Don’t forget to bring your own lawn chair!
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Interesting and excellent idea.