Indigenous Performances & Cultural Experiences
Join us at the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Festival (KWMF) 2025 as we honour and celebrate Indigenous voices, stories, and traditions. Over both days of the festival, experience meaningful cultural sharing through ceremony, music, art, and community.
Start your day with the Sunrise Ceremony in partnership with Willow River Centre.
Help us celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day and begin the day in a good way with a Sunrise Ceremony and the lighting of the sacred fire. All are welcome to take part in this meaningful ceremony.
Join us throughout the weekend at the Sacred Fire on Victoria Park Island, hosted by Crow Shield Lodge.
The event will begin with opening ceremonies led by Clarence Cachagee—an author, community leader, and founder of Crow Shield Lodge—who will offer a smudge, prayer, and song. Clarence, from Chapleau Cree First Nation, has dedicated his life to land-based healing and supporting Indigenous communities. His memoir, North Wind Man, tells the story of resilience and leadership through trauma.
The Sacred Fire is a central element in many Indigenous ceremonies and gatherings. It symbolizes the presence of the Creator and serves as a focal point for prayers, offerings, and spiritual connection. The fire will be tended throughout the weekend by a designated firekeeper, who ensures it burns continuously and respectfully.
Take part in a medicine pouch workshop with artist Susan Hill from the Indigenous Art Collective or take part in a beading workshop with artist Christine Porter—a creative, hands-on experience where you can learn to make beautiful bead and bone lanyards! Creative, hands-on activities open to all at the Library booth.
Meet Susan Hill
Susan Hill is a proud member of the Wolf Clan from the Cayuga Nation, hailing from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. She was introduced to beading at a young age by her mother and has since developed her craft into a lifelong passion. A self-taught moccasin maker, Susan now shares her knowledge through hands-on workshops that celebrate traditional Indigenous artistry. Her most popular offering is moccasin making, and she also facilitates sessions in loom beading and crafting leather medicine pouches.
Meet Christine Porter
Christine Porter is Mohawk, Wolf Clan from Six Nations. She has been beading since she was 8 years old. Christine is the creative behind Woodland Creations, which makes woodland floral acrylic earrings and accessories, beaded lanyards and ribbon skirts. She is excited to share her art during the multicultural festival with everyone.
Experience a powerful cultural collaboration from Indigenous Creatives United (ICU), the Indigenous Poets Society, and Ogitchidaa Kweog, featuring traditional drumming with Elder Marylou Smoke of Smoke Signals Radio.
