The Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, has long been celebrated by many First Nations and Métis as the beginning of summer — the arrival of warm weather and long hours of light. It is a day with spiritual and cultural significance. “It symbolizes a new season of life, a chance to start fresh and leave past burdens behind.” (MLT Aikins, 2022). The summer solstice also happens during National Indigenous History Month and on the eve of National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD).

On June 20, 2024 MMAMR partnered with Mississippi Mills to host a Summer Solstice celebration bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. The celebration was open to everyone in the community, and despite needing to relocate the event inside due to rain, over 100 people came out to share in both Indigenous and non Indigenous activities.  A BBQ was provided by Larry Woermke, Mohawk.  Being June it was easy to offer strawberries, the heart berry of the Indigenous People.  As is customary for them, strawberry water was available and non Indigenous friends of MMAMR offered strawberry shortcake, a settler favourite at teas and picnics held in June. 

The activities for the evening included wise words from Knowledge keeper, John Henry Commanda who stepped forward at the last minute to replace Elder Larry McDermott who was ill and led the evening with Sue Evans, MMAMR coordinator. The activities included music, jingle dancing, crafts, and songs. Robert Manson (fire keeper), Nish Nabie (songs, reflections and drumming), Raven Bright Moon (crafts), Amanda Fox (jingle dancing), Tiger Will & Pauline Ducharne (singing), Kentucky (sound system and singing), Renato Vettore (singing), Almonte’s Rhythm and Song! Community Choir and the many community members from babies to seniors who made this a very special celebration.  

Miigwetch, Maarsi, Qujannamiik, Thank you.