On July 15, Durham College (DC) held a barbeque event to welcome hundreds of competitors, coaches and families, along with organizers of the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG), to its Oshawa campus and Durham Region. The college, which is providing residence for many of the NAIG participants, was excited to show their support for the competition.

“The games are a wonderful opportunity to share the talent, skills and dedication of the Indigenous community,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, vice-president, Academic. “With that in mind, it is very fitting that DC is one of the host locations for the game’s participants because community is an important part of our history.”

Attendees were blessed by Elder, Dr. Shirley Williams and heard remarks from Dr. Popp, as well as Oshawa Mayor John Henry, Durham MPP Granville Anderson and Oshawa MPP Jennifer French.  Performances followed, by Indigenous artists Smoke Trail, the All Our Relations Métis Drum Circle and Knowledge Keeper, Troy White, who performed Mi’kmaq drumming.

DC’s Aboriginal Student Centre also opened its doors to any participants seeking support from Aboriginal employees, Bawaajigewin Community Board members and volunteers, and/or those looking to participate in fun activities during their stay.

Hosted by the City of Toronto with events throughout the Greater Toronto Area, NAIG is the largest continental sporting and cultural gathering of Indigenous people. This year’s games will see 5,000 participants, including athletes and coaches, in attendance.

 

The games can be followed on Twitter and Instagram with #AllOne and #NAIG2017.