The Town of Innisfil and the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library are recognizing National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day with a series of events inviting the community to learn, reflect, and celebrate Indigenous culture and contributions.
A Morning of Reconciliation
On Thursday, June 19th, residents are encouraged to gather at Innisfil Beach Park from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a morning of ceremony, teachings, and relationship building. Led by Anishinaabe-Métis Knowledge Keeper Kelly Lavallee, the event includes a sunrise pipe ceremony, Sacred Fire, strawberry pancake breakfast, and community discussions. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and meet at the Lakeside Pavilion near parking lots B and E. Learn more here.
Author Talk with Drew Hayden Taylor
On Saturday, June 21st from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., award-winning writer Drew Hayden Taylor will speak at the Lakeshore Branch of the Library about his newest novel, Cold. A Curve Lake First Nation member and writer of 36 books, Drew’s work bridges humour, storytelling, and Indigenous identity. This free event requires registration.
Opening of the Remembering Garden
A new Indigenous garden honouring medicinal plants and cultural teachings will be unveiled at the Lakeshore Branch on Saturday, June 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Led by cultural carrier Tasheena Sarazin and Mohawk community member Tanya Gluvakov, the ceremony will include education about traditional medicines and the garden’s purpose. Supported by the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, the event is open to all, rain or shine.
Additional programming includes themed Storytimes and curated reading lists highlighting Indigenous voices and stories. The Library also offers free memberships to all First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people living in Ontario, providing access to books, safe spaces, and digital content.
Click here to register and learn more about these special events.
