(AGENPARL) – Fri 20 June 2025 City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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Media Advisory
June 20, 2024
City of Toronto to hold annual Sunrise Ceremony in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day
Tomorrow, Mayor Olivia Chow and the City of Toronto will observe National Indigenous Peoples Day with its annual Sunrise Ceremony – a significant Anishinaabe tradition.
Date: Saturday, June 21
Time: 5:30 a.m.
Location: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W.
Note for media: Permission has been granted by the Elder for the ceremony to be filmed and photographed (subject to change). The Eastern doorway area (the area facing East, where the sun rises) must remain open and unobstructed at all times. Media availability with Grandmother Kim will follow shortly after the Ceremony.
The Sunrise Ceremony pays tribute to Indigenous traditions and culture, expressing gratitude for all creation and embracing Mino Baamodziwin (The Good Life). As Mishoomis Giizis (Grandfather Sun) provides light and warmth, attendees will form a circle, cleanse their spirit with sacred sage and participate in a pipe ritual with tobacco.
The ceremony, led by Grandmother Kim Wheatley of Curve Lake First Nation and Fire Keeper Pat Floody of the Simpcw First Nation in British Columbia, will include teachings and singing. Following the ceremony, an Indigenous feast will be available for all attendees.
Afterwards, attendees are invited to journey on a self-guided tour of the Spirit Garden, also known as the Indian Residential School Survivors Restoration of Identity Project. The Garden is a collaborative initiative between the City and the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre, dedicated to honouring Indigenous history and culture, and fostering reconciliation.
For more information about National Indigenous Peoples Day and sunrise ceremonies, please visit the City’s Indigenous Events, Commemorations & Awards webpage: http://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/indigenous-events-awards.