Annual Events
Indigenous Veterans Day
November 8th is Indigenous Veterans Day, a day dedicated to honoring the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans. This day acknowledges the unique challenges and triumphs faced by Indigenous peoples in the military. Despite historical and ongoing systemic barriers, Indigenous veterans have served with distinction in various conflicts, from the First World War to present-day missions.
It is important to highlight the often-overlooked history of Indigenous military service. Many Indigenous veterans have not received the same level of recognition as non-Indigenous veterans, and this day helps to address that imbalance. By acknowledging their service, we can begin to rectify historical injustices and ensure that their stories are included broadly in Canadian military history.
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (Sept 30)
Since 2013, Canada has recognized September 30 as Orange Shirt Day—a day to acknowledge the impacts of residential schools. In 2021, in the wake of locating unmarked graves at residential schools across Canada, the federal government passed legislation to also designate September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
> News Release - City to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Sept 30, 2021) as Stat
Wearing orange on September 30 continues to be one way to honour residential school survivors, their families, and those who didn’t make it home.
As we get closer to September 30, many groups and organizations will host events around the city. Stay tuned for details and check out:
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CUMFI’S Métis Cultural Days – In the spirit of reconciliation, Métis Cultural Days showcases community participation, awareness and engagement in Métis arts, culture and history. This year, the Western Development Museum will be hosting the Métis Cultural Days from September 6-8.
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CUMFI Free Pancake Breakfast- September 30 from 8:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m. at 315 Avenue M South.
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Wanuskewin – Wanuskewin (www.wanuskewin.com) is hosting a Truth and Reconciliation Gathering on September 30 from 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., with drop in programming and special events throughout the day. They are also looking for volunteers to help with the day. Please visit their website for more information and to sign up.
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Take the Know Your Roots Walking Tour- The Know Your Roots walking tour was developed by the Walk for Reconciliation organizing committee, who wanted to highlight places around our city that relate to the process of reconciliation. A walking tour booklet is available.
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Attend a powwow- The Reconciliation Saskatoon ConnectR website (www.beaconnectr.org) has information on what you need to know about attending a powwow and a list of websites that share powwow event information.
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Whitecap Dakota Nation is hosting a powwow at SaskTel Centre from September 13-15. No cost to attend.
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The Saskatoon Tribal Council is hosting a powwow on September 29 & 30th at SaskTel Centre. No cost to attend.
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The People Bridge Truth and Reconciliation Gathering 2024- The People Bridge Advocacy group is hosting a gathering at Station 20 West (1120 20th Street West) on September 21, from 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
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RunConciliAction Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk- Organized by Indigenous Runner/ Red Trail Running, the RunConciliAction event will raise funds to support Indigenous athletes. Runners and walkers can choose to participate in 2.15km, 5km or 10km events. Event details and registration can be found on the Race Roster website.
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Lunch and Learn Series- The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is hosting a series of lunch and learns that are open to the public from September 23-27 on a variety of topics. Visit their website to learn more and register.
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Saskatoon Tribal Council Memorial Walk- The Saskatoon Tribal Council is hosting a memorial walk to honour and commemorate all those affected by residential schools. The walk is taking place on Friday, September 27, 2024 and starts at 10:00 a.m. at the Saskatoon Tribal Council office at 335 Packham Avenue. Everyone is encouraged to wear orange shirts.
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Métis Nation Saskatchewan Film Screening- Métis Nation Saskatchewan will be screening two films at Saskatoon's Roxy Theatre on September 26 from 6:00 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.). Please bring donations of sanitary items, toiletries, baby diapers, powdered milk or baby formula to help those in need.
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Waiting for Justice-A documentary on the survivors of the Île-à-la Crosse Residential School (18 minutes long).
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Bones of Crows- The journey of a matriarch through the devastating impact of residential schools (2 hours long, rated 14+).
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Indigenous History Month (June)
In June, a number of events are held and resources made available so as to honour and learn from Indigenous Peoples.
June Calendar of Events
2024
| JUNE | Reconciliation Walking Tour |
Indigenous History Month is the perfect time to visit places around Saskatoon that speak to the process of Reconciliation including public art installations, sites of historical significance, renaming initiatives, and unique Indigenous and non-Indigenous partnerships. More info and Walking Tour Booklet available on this page under 'Know Your Roots'. |
| JUNE | Read for Reconciliation |
Make a commitment to Read for Reconciliation by accessing the Saskatoon Public Library. Search "Reconciliation". |
| JUNE |
Explore BeAConnectR.org Website - Resources for Reconciliation |
Reconciliation Saskatoon's BeAConnectR website helps you choose your next steps towards reconciliation. Find calls to action to grow what you know, encourage a shared future, and generate change. Link here. |
| JUNE | Art Exhibitions |
Wanuskewin Heritage Place hosts Indigenous art exhibitions during the month of June. Inquire directly to confirm details. |
| June 5-8 | Ācimowin (Storytelling) Indigenous Film Festival |
The inaugural Ācimowin (Storytelling) Film Festival will take place in Saskatoon June 5-8, 2024 at the Remai Modern, Roxy Theatre, and Broadway Theatre. This festival is dedicated to elevating Indigenous narratives, fostering Indigenous language revitalization, and empowering youth. The ultimate goal is to foster connections between communities and provide audiences with a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives through the power of cinema. acimowinfilmfestival.com |
| June 6 & 13 | Red Willow Tipi Workshop |
Learn how to create your own red willow tipi through this workshop hosted by Lyndon J. Linklater at Remai Modern's Cameco Learning Studio. Linklater was taught this skill by an Elder from the Whitecap Dakota First Nation. Red willow tipis are a unique form of art. This two-part workshop will take place over two evenings, one week apart: Thursday, June 6 and Thursday, June 13 from 6-9 PM. Purchase tickets here |
| June 21 | Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation |
In 2024, the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation will move back to its original date of June 21—National Indigenous Peoples' Day. Gather in Victoria Park at 10 AM. The walk will follow a path close to the river with artists performing along the route (approx. 1 hour). The walk will end in Reconciliation Circle in Victoria Park and the entire event will conclude at 11:45 AM. |
| June 21 |
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration |
The Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre (SIMFC) partners with community to host a celebration in Victoria Park, which the City of Saskatoon participates in. Grand Entry, free lunch for all, program and activities between 12:00 and 3:30 PM. Watch the SIMFC Facebook Page for updates on 2024 |
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June 21 |
Wanuskewin Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration |
Wanuskewin hosts an Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration that includes a full day of activities for the entire family including guided walks through the valley; traditional game stations; Amphitheatre performances; keynote speakers. The galleries, exhibits, playground, gift shop and restaurant are open for the day as well. Call Wanuskewin directly to confirm program details. |
| June 21 |
Dakota Dunes Resort - Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration |
The Dakota Dunes Resort often holds a celebration. Check with the resort to confirm details. |
| June 29-30 |
Muskeg Lake Cree Nation Veterans Traditional Powwow |
Muskeg Lake Cree Nation Veterans Traditional Powwow. More info at muskeglake.com |
Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21)
June 21 has been recognized annually as National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly National Aboriginal Day) since 1996. For generations, many Indigenous 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. This is a day to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of Indigenous people.
Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation
The City of Saskatoon, in its role as Co-Chair of Reconciliation Saskatoon, helps organize the annual Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation. The significance of a walk can be attributed to the Sunday walks in residential schools; often the only time when siblings and cousins might be reunited. Walkers are encouraged to wear an Every Child Matters orange shirt. Cultural performers from our community 'rock their roots' along the route to show their support and celebrate Saskatoon's incredible diversity.
2024 Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation
Friday, June 21, 2024
10:00 AM - Gather in Victoria Park
10:30-11:30 AM - Reconciliation Walk along the river
11:30-11:45 AM - Walk ends in Victoria Park at the Reconciliation Circle (near Lions skate park)
Download the Route Map: 2024 Rock Your Roots
VIDEO: Building the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation
VIDEO: History of Rock Your Roots
Round Dance & Feast (March)
The City was thrilled to partner with community in offering its first Community Round Dance & Feast on March 28, 2024 at the Cosmo Civic Centre. A round dance is a traditional event in Indigenous culture that celebrates the unity of the community and its people. The theme for this event was miyo pimatisiwin or “the good life for all”. The event was open to everyone.
Watch a short clip of the City's Round Dance on Facebook. Or check out these helpful videos on round dances to learn more about round dances:
University of Alberta – Round Dance 101: What to Know Before Your First Dance