‘At First Light’ event celebrates National Indigenous Peoples’ Day on downtown Kitchener street

Downtown Kitchener played host to the ‘At First Light’ event Wednesday morning to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples’ Day and mark summer solstice.

Before the sun even came out in Waterloo Region, a traditional sunrise ceremony took place on King Street West in front of THEMUSEUM. The road was closed off for the event.

People were gathered around the fire, lit by local fire keeper Al McDonald, for a prayer and the special offering of their tobacco.

Local fire keeper Al McDonald was the first person to arrive at the event to set up the fire. He told CityNews 570 what the ceremony is all about.

“The purpose of our sunrise ceremony is to greet the sun, greet the day in a good way and greet [National Indigenous Peoples’ Day] in a good way too,” said McDonald. “The lighting of the fire represents the spirit in all of us.”

Afterwards the people were invited into the building for some coffee and pastries as well as some traditional singing and dancing. McDonald said that he’s grateful for THEMUSEUM for being gracious hosts for multiple years.

“Just want to give a quick shoutout to THEMUSEUM for actually hosting this and recognizing that [National Indigenous Peoples’ Day] is important. It’s just a good opportunity for everybody to come see the culture.”

MacDonald encouraged everyone to look for ceremonies throughout the community, so they can continue enjoy their culture.

He also thanked the City of Kitchener and Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, who was in attendance, for their support.