The four Anglophone School Districts are once again recognizing and celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day today, Monday, June 21st . In addition to the school and classroom based activities already planned,  A Celebration of Culture from 10:40 a.m. - 11:40 a.m., was live-streamed from Elsipogtog School on the Anglophone district North’s YouTube channel, at https://youtu.be/7_u3iUmDAZU

This live celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day was open to all schools and to the public, and is now available to watch as an archived recording on the YouTube channel.

We are very pleased to share that Elder Donna Augustine lead a celebration of Indigenous culture that displayed traditional drumming, dancing, and knowledge sharing. Elder Donna Augustine, Thunderbird Turtle Woman, is a Mi'kmaq Traditional Elder, storyteller, dancer, and singer from Elsipogtog First Nation. Donna has spent several years within the ASD-N and ASD-E school districts, sharing her traditional teachings and culture with students and staff through her kindness and giving heart.

The celebration also features Wabanaki Confederacy, a northern style powwow singing group based in Eastern Canada. They strive to blend a traditional style of Mi'kmaq singing with a more current style of northern powwow. Their goal is to create more cultural awareness of our teachings while having fun through song and dance.

Mason and Madison Milliea also joinied us as Grass and Fancy Shawl dancers, respectively. Mason and Madison have been sharing their culture this way for many years and have participated in many competitive and traditional powwows, as well as being feature guests in schools and various education events. We are so happy to have them join us in their home community of Elsipogtog.

Aqtamgiaq Tepgunset Augustine, age 10 from the Esgenoopetitj First Nation, is a Fancy Shawl and Jingle Dress dancer. Aqtamgiaq Tepgunset will be sharing her Jingle Dress dancing with us. She has been dancing since she could walk, and she loves powwow. Schools are encouraged to incorporate Indigenous Peoples Day into curriculum on June 21st . 

If you have any questions on this special event, or wish to learn more, please reach out to the First Nation Subject Coordinator in your school district.

ASD-N (North) First Nation Education Matthew Sweezey matthew.sweezey@nbed.nb.ca