All are welcome to join us for a powerful and inspiring evening as we welcome honoured guests George Kennedy, Laurie Minor and Aryawna Isaac to McDougall Cottage.

In conjunction with our exhibit Currents of Change: Inspiring Action Along the Grand River, this unique event, held in honour of National Indigenous People’s Day, invites you to explore the enduring relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Grand River through storytelling, song, teachings, and hands-on creativity.

Event highlights include:

· An engaging opening talk

· A guided tour of Currents of Change

· Hand drumming performances

· The sharing of sacred bundles and teachings

· A hands-on copper pail necklace workshop (materials provided)

· A closing song and community singing circle

Participants are invited to bring their hand drums.

About our guests:

George Kennedy, PhD ABD, went to Indian day school in the Oneida Nation and is Turtle Clan of the Shonuses family. His Master of Arts in history examined Eurocentric literature, Indigenous oral history, and archaeological findings in terms of the dish with one spoon treaty.

Laurie Minor (Giizhii wewet Animkii Binesiikwe – Loud Thunderbird Woman) is a Métis-Anishinaabe woman of Marten Clan, whose family roots trace back to the Red River Settlement. Though not raised in the culture, Laurie has spent years reconnecting to her Anishinaabe identity through ceremony, learning alongside her children, and the teachings of Elders. She will share reflections on the Water Walkers and the sacred relationship between water, land, and spirit.

Aryawna Isaac, a Bear Clan Anishinaabe Kwe from Walpole Island First Nation will lead the copper pail necklace workshop. A talented Jingle Dress dancer, hand drummer, and cultural artist, Aryawna shares her deep knowledge of Indigenous craft, song, and tradition with communities across the region.

This is an evening of learning, reflection, and creative engagement—a chance to listen, connect, and honour the waters that sustain us all.

Indigenous Cultures within the Grand River at McDougall Cottage