The week of June 17 to 20 will be packed with activities to acknowledge Indigenous culture, with these events leading up to the main celebration on June 21 of National Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
The Wakamow Aboriginal Community Association (WACA) is organizing the events for this week.
The activities from June 17 to 20 will take place from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Tatawaw Park and will be geared toward children, although the public is welcome to come watch what is happening, explained Lori Deets, WACA board chair. These activities include elder teachings, guided tours, storytelling, and flute playing.
There will be a guided tour in and around Tatawaw Park, formerly known as the Wild Animal Park, on Tuesday, June 18. Historian Ron Papandrea will discuss the Lakota history within the area and possible burial sites as well.
WACA will highlight many young Indigenous talents from Moose Jaw and Saskatchewan during a hip-hop performance on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Friday, June 21 beginning at 8 p.m. Rapper Big Mo — also known as Kalem Moses — will be the main headliner for the evening.
Well-known hoop dancer Terrence Littletent will perform during the hip-hop concert. Other local entertainers will also be on stage, including pop singers Brittnee Prettyshield and Shaytawna Hesjedal.
There will also be a poetry slam featuring Charly Bird and Austin Ahenakew.
CTV Regina reporter Creeson Agecoutay — who hosts Indigenous Circle — will MC the evening.
“I’m immensely looking forward to (the evening),” added Deets. “We have put a lot of work into the last month and a half.”
Follow WACA’s Facebook page for more information.
