Jamii's 6th Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations took place on June 21st in David Crombie Park and was a wonderful celebration. Attendees enjoyed a taste of Indigenous food, a captivating dance performance by Tribal Vision Dance, and explored a cultural market featuring Indigenous vendors. Jamii also unveiled a photo exhibition by photographer Maddy King and presented paintings by artist Amberlee King, both from Pikangikum First Nation, who visited Toronto for the occasion. 

Not only Tribal Vision Dance performed "Visions of Turtle Island" for the general public in the evening, but during the day, they also performed for over 300 students from Market Lane Public School. Tribal Vision Dance, a family troupe from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, brought a high-energy show to share Indigenous culture and traditions. The performers explained the history and significance of each dance, introducing the audience to the powwow culture of North American Indigenous people. 

The cultural market featured jewelry by Theresa Burning, fashion and streetwear by Neechi by Nature, ribbon skirts and accessories by Laura Martin, beads and accessories by Nunny Pelletier, and beadwork and candles by Rikki Singleton.

The evening also highlighted Jim Adams, a multidisciplinary artist and educator who combines Indigenous knowledge with contemporary art and science. With a rich cultural heritage connecting to the Swampy Cree, Innu, and Mohawk, as well as Welsh and Kent roots, Jim shared his unique perspective, drawing from his grandfathers' traditions as hunters and gatherers with deep ties to the land and its significance. Jim hosted the event and led a round dance with everyone involved. 

The photographic exhibition by Leah King is titled Koshki'zi. In Leah's words: "Our culture and our connection to Mother Earth has been deep in slumber. We were made to forget. We began to fear it. Now we are awake. Restless. We see with new eyes. Reborn. We are taking back our culture. We wear the ribbon skirt that connects us with Mother Earth. We dance because we have reclaimed what we lost. We are awake. And we will relearn and rebuild."

This special day brought the community together to celebrate, learn, and appreciate Indigenous culture and peoples. 

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