The Niagara 2021 Canada Summer Games Host Society and the Indigenous Partnership Council have signed a memorandum of understanding.
The newly formed council includes representatives from local, provincial and national Indigenous communities and groups including the Six Nations of the Grand River, Niagara Regional Native Friendship Centre, Fort Erie Friendship Centre, The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Metis Nation of Ontario, NPAAMB, Inuit, and Brock University
The Host Society and IPCÂ will be working together to ensure Indigenous communities are involved in the events leading up to and during the games.
Members of the IPC will be sharing the diverse cultures and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people by helping to co-welcome and educate the athletes and viewers through traditions, songs, dances, and craftsmanship.
The IPC will play an important role in the opening and closing ceremonies, Niagara Place, and the 13-for-13 Cultural festival.
Both groups will also work together to identify and recruit Indigenous candidates who will serve in leadership roles for Niagara 2021's Volunteer Services, Artistic Festivals, Athletes Village, and Niagara Place.