National Indigenous People's Day Has Large Turnout at Skatepark

By Isaac White.

National Indigenous Peoples Day was celebrated nationally last week on June 21st. Events were held at both the Akwesasne Skatepark on Kawehno:ke at the A'nowara'ko:wa Arena and also the Native North American Traveling College in Kawehno:ke.

Because June 21 marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, many Indigenous groups and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on that day for millennia.

The Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day was issued by the then-Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, in 1996, and is currently known as National Indigenous Peoples Day.

This was the outcome of negotiations with several Indigenous groups, who also expressed support for such a day in statements:

• in 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day

• in 1995, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples

• also in 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day

Akwesasne had its own festivities, one being an open event of activity and fun at the new Skatepark near the A'nowara'ko:wa Arena. Troy Thompson, Business Services Officer for Economic Development at Mohawk Council of Akwesasne helped to illuminate the activities ongoing that day.

Thompson told Indian Time that in addition to June 21st being National Indigenous People's Day the 21st day in June is also Go Skate Day. Go Skate Day is an internationally celebrated annual event that pays homage to the thrilling world of skateboarding. It serves as a platform to spotlight the positive influence that the sport and its culture have on both individuals and communities at large. The day is about promoting and fostering creativity, stimulating physical activity, and nurturing camaraderie amongst skateboarders of all levels. This occasion not only converges the paths of professional and amateur skaters but also invites enthusiasts and spectators alike to bask in the exhilarating experience of the sport.

The inception of Go Skate Day traces back to 2003, conceptualized by the International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC). Since then, it has managed to attract substantial global support and interest, steadily growing in popularity and scale.

Go Skate Day is a testament to a commitment to fostering inclusivity and a deep-rooted love for diverse outdoor recreational activities. This observance aligns with societal values, and the day serves as an outlet for people to express their passion for the sport, while also building and fostering community ties. It offers an opportunity for citizens to come together, celebrate their love for the sport, and encourage more people to take up skateboarding, thereby perpetuating its positive impact on society.

Celebrating culture in Akwesasne as well as the sport of skateboarding is something Thompson emphasized was the intent for the event that day. The integration of cultural traditions and modern physical activities blend well to Thompson. Communal gathering and collective fun are hallmarks of Akwesasne historical traditions and the skatepark event showcased that spirit.

From toddlers to elders, Akwesasne was out in full effect for the day. Some were showing off their incredible skateboarding skills, others watched in awe of the daredevil spirit of the skaters, while others took in the sights and enjoyed the gathered crowd.

That was very important to Thompson who said, "Getting people together" was the main purpose for the day's event. Thompson said that there were lessons available for kids and adults who were interested.

Another draw was the presence of professional skateboarder Annie Guglia, who is also a Canadian Olympic skater and the president of Skateboard Canada. Guglia was seen giving tips to youngsters and zooming around the beautifully constructed park.

The heavy focus on hockey and lacrosse in Akwesasne is something Thompson also said was on his mind and others when constructing the skatepark. He pointed out that the interests of people in Akwesasne are varied and while he loves and appreciates the sports staples of Akwesasne, he feels that having an alternative sport, such as skateboarding, is a bonus for the community.

"It's good for your physical health, it's good for your mental health," Thompson said of the benefits of skateboarding as a fun and physical activity.

Justin Towndale, the Mayor of Cornwall was on the scene to enjoy the festivities and admire the facility that was put together by Thompson and many other partners for the benefit of the community.

Mayor Towndale told Indian Time he was enjoying National Skate Day. Indigenous People's Day is important to Towndale, who said that his relationships with people in Akwesasne is vitally important. The ability to work cooperatively with leaders and people in Akwesasne are priorities according to Towndale.

Most of all, Towndale was impressed by the skatepark and is excited to see such an advanced park in a local community. The Mayor was congratulatory in his words for Akwesasne.

"I really applaud Akwesasne for building this. This is fantastic," he said of the fresh facility.

In a moment of levity, Mayor Towndale said, "Quite frankly, I'm jealous."

While the lighthearted was certainly funny, the park is a testament to the hardworking and community minded nature of Troy Thompson and all who played roles in seeing the Skatepark come to fruition.