CBC Toronto celebrates National Indigenous History Month at the Na-Me-Res Powwow

On June 15, communities came together for National Indigenous History Month with the vibrant Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Powwow at Fort York. This free, family-friendly event provides a platform for Indigenous cultures to showcase their heritage, resilience and contributions across Tkaronto (Toronto) and Canada.

The event was hosted by Na-Me-Res, an organization that provides outreach services and permanent housing to Indigenous men experiencing homelessness in Toronto. 

"The event helped to educate people around reconciliation and homelessness. I'm grateful for people who came and hope they listened with open ears and open hearts and walked away feeling good about the event and the time they spent with us," said Steve Teekens, executive director of Na-Me-Res.

At the CBC tent, attendees had the opportunity to interact with Metro Morning's David Common and CBC podcast host Falen Johnson. The CBC Kids News team was also present to interview enthusiastic kids about the day's events. Visitors learned about CBC's National Indigenous Strategy and the Indigenous Pathways to Journalism Development Program, part of CBC's ongoing commitment to elevate Indigenous stories and perspectives.

"I had a great time hanging out in the CBC tent. I loved seeing the dancers, all the vendors and running into friends I haven't seen in a while. A great way to kick off the summer and powwow season," said CBC podcast host Falen Johnson.

The festival featured the excitement of a traditional powwow, a dynamic celebration of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures through drumming, dancing, and regalia. During the festival, young Indigenous artists and performers were celebrated for their talents and contributions.

"The powwow was a celebration for our families to be there with our children. I enjoyed the feeling of the powwow, it seems to be growing in a healthy positive way," said men's traditional dancer Daniel Secord of the Mississaugas of the Credit. "It was more of a sense of community, between the urban native community and people in the country."

The Mississaugas of the Credit Indigenous Arts Festival featured both contemporary and traditional Indigenous music, spotlighting renowned Indigenous talents. The stage came alive with live music and dance performances, highlighting some of Canada's most renowned Indigenous talent. The festival's atmosphere was one of pride, joy and unity, reflecting the resilient spirit of Indigenous communities.

Throughout the weekend, festival-goers also explored a variety of artisan and food market stalls. These stalls not only showcased authentic handmade artwork, but also offered a taste of delicious Indigenous dishes, enriching the cultural experience.

This event highlighted the power of community engagement and provided a meaningful opportunity for residents, journalists and community leaders to connect and celebrate together.

As with all its community-focused initiatives, the connections made during this event promise to enrich CBC's storytelling, ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of Toronto's Indigenous communities is both celebrated and integral to the ongoing narrative of the city.