June 21, National Aboriginal Day is more than ever an opportunity to recognise the key role First Nations have played in the history of Montreal. The Mayor, Aboriginal leaders and representatives of the Provincial and Federal governments will attend this ceremony, a sign of new friendships fostered by freedom and dignity. These expressions of rapprochement and recognition have become a tradition for our First Peoples' Festival.

The circle of life - Around Kondiaronk Viewpoint

All the key forms of life are linked to Mother Earth. These close links among natural phenomena and beings permeate the ritualised performance art of Jacques Néwashish, an Attikamekw from Wémotaci. An installation reminiscent of a tepee, with the drum at its centre. Five chants keep the beat of time as calls to celebrate life in all its forms.

The work develops organically and unfolds according to a schema based on a depiction of the universe. Dreamcatchers marking the four directions of Aboriginal spirituality punctuate the great circle of life, expressing human aspirations. As a structure based on concentric circles is traced out, specific chants accompany the gestures of the participants and guests. Long poles are driven into the ground. The circle grows and we can easily imagine it eventually encompassing all of humankind.

The mayor of Montreal, Aboriginal leaders and representatives of the Provincial and Federal governments are invited to join in with the participants in making the sign of friendship that will round out the performance.

Jacques Néwashish beats his drum and his voice lifts up, bearing a song of thanksgiving.

Under the sign of youth

The festival in Kahnawake

A screening of Moccasin Flats

The Kanien'keha:ka Kahnawakehro:non (Kahnawake Mohawks) are a dynamic young community who have burst onto the arts and culture The Symposium on the new guard and training in the film and TV fields in a First Nations context will be a First Peoples' Festival 2003 event. A screening of Moccasin Flats, a feature film that was a product of an educational program for actors and filmmakers will round out the day's work. Young Kahnawake actor Landon Montour is in one of the starring roles in this short subject.

These activities will take place in partnership with Kanien'kehaka Raotitiohkwa Many community associations and businesses will be pitching in, in particular Kateri Hall and Paul Communications.