City hosting National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration

Medicine Hat – With National Indigenous Heritage Month now underway, the City of Medicine Hat is pleased to invite the public to attend a National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration event at City Hall on Friday, June 20, 2025.

The event is set for 1 to 3 p.m. at the City Hall plaza by the clock tower. The event will move into the Helen Beny Gibson Lounge if the weather does not allow for an outdoor celebration. A tipi will also be set up outside of City Hall on the grass near Finlay Bridge. The event, and all City efforts within National Indigenous History Month, will honour the rich history, traditions and cultures, and important contributions of Indigenous peoples in the community.

“During National Indigenous History Month and on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we honour the enduring presence and profound knowledge of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut'ina, Cree, Sioux, Saulteaux, and the Métis Nation of Region III,” said Aaron Nelson, Manager of Cultural Experiences and Events with the City of Medicine Hat. “Their stories, traditions, and teachings continue to shape the spirit of this land. Today, and every day, we celebrate the rich cultural mosaic they bring to our shared community and commit to listening, learning, and walking forward together in respect and unity."

National Indigenous Peoples Day event details are as follows:

1. Welcome, land acknowledgement and opening remarks from Managing Director Joe Hutter
2. Opening Prayer and Smudge, led by Elder Charlie Fox
3. Honour Song, performed by community drummers
4. Remarks from Mayor Linnsie Clark, Carlee EaglePlume, and Brenda Mercer
5. Dance presentation from Dobry, Shannon, and Dustin Kunka
6. Flag raising ceremony outside City Hall (east doors)
7. Closing remarks from Managing Director Joe Hutter
8. Reception, and Craft & Learn Circle in the Tipi

Event refreshments will include Bannock, tea, coffee and water. Informal drumming and dancing may continue in the tipi area.

The City of Medicine Hat will be partnering with several organizations to provide and promote Indigenous programming and events throughout June. More information on these opportunities can be found at medicinehat.ca/NIPD.

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