The Qalipu Cultural Foundation, along with a multitude of Indigenous community partners, is happy to report that the first-ever “virtual celebration” of National Indigenous Peoples Day was a huge success.  Thousands of people tuned into the online content from throughout the country and participants were happy to have the chance to connect to their culture and their community from anywhere with internet access.  The event was so well received in fact that even when face-to-face celebrations can resume, the planning team commits to offering a digital connection for years to come!

Qalipu Band Chief Brendan Mitchell commented on the positive aspect of the community working together during difficult times.  He said, “Witnessing our Nation finding a way to come together to celebrate and share was such a positive light during this unprecedented and unpredictable time.  This event demonstrates the strength of our community when we work together, and I hope to see many more virtual celebrations in the future.”

Content that was shared included a medicine bag teaching and tutorial, stories, messages from community members, song sharing and a bed-time story for the little ones.  If you missed the day, you can access all uploaded videos on the Qalipu First Nation Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/QalipuFirstNation/videos/

The Qalipu Cultural Foundation and Band would like to thank the following groups and individuals for taking part and sharing in the event:

St. John’s Mi’kmaq Women’s Circle
Michelle Bennett
Mi’kmaq Drumming and Cultural Circle, Inc.
Colleen Paul
Aspen Woodworks Demonstration
St. George’s Indian Band
Burgeo Band of Indians
Indian Cove Women’s Circle
Qalipu First Nation
Qalipu Youth Network
North Shore Aboriginal Group Inc
Dean Simon
Exploits Aboriginal Community Group
Tyrone Mulrooney
Benoit First Nation
Kikmanaq Indigenous Cultural Revival Association
People of the Dawn Indigenous Friendship Center
Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network
Parks Canada