Hundreds gathered to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day in London

Hundreds of people gatheredat the Wortley Village Green in London on Friday to celebrateIndigenous Solidarity Day through dancing, learning, and food.

A similar celebration took place on the Oneida Nation of the Thames territory,where everyone is also welcome. Across the country, First Nationcommunities mark June 21 as a day to honour heritage, resilience and Indigenous contributions across Turtle Island.

The day started with sunrise ceremonies in Wortley Village and on the Oneida territory, with people gathering around a sacred fire.

"Depending on which nation it is, we greet the sunwith a song or a prayer," said Ira Timothy, who is Lanape from Delaware First Nation and a spokesperson for the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians. "It's to welcome the day with good spirit and good mind, to make sure everyone is looked after."

Meet 3 food vendors at Indigenous Solidarity Day in London

5 months ago

Duration 3:08

From Indian Tacos to lemonade and smoothies, Indigenous food vendors added delicious food to the Indigenous Solidarity Day celebration in London, Ont., on June 21, 2024. CBC Afternoon Drive host Matt Allen visited three of the vendors.

The community enjoyedan afternoonof live music, dance,and even lacrosse demonstrations. Smoke dancers also performedat both locations.

"If there's something you want to learn about in a dance, a significant item, or you want to learn about something culturally significant that's happening,now is the time to do it. Come and ask us," Timothy said.

Meet two women creating beautiful Indigenous beadwork

5 months ago

Duration 1:45

Mary Capton and Amber White of Three Sisters' Beadwork brought their art to Indigenous Solidarity Day at the Wortley Village Green in London, Ont., on June 21, 2024.