June 15, 2021, Winnipeg, MB – The seventh annual Indigenous Garden will once again be rooted at Air Canada Park on Portage Avenue at Carlton. The initiative launched by the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ in partnership with APTN, will begin with a blessing of the plants by Elder David Budd at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 15. This year, the blessing will be live-streamed on the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Facebook page. Downtown Winnipeg BIZ staff will then plant the garden, following physical distancing protocols.
The Garden will showcase a variety of Indigenous plants and material, complete with on-site signage to give visitors an opportunity to learn more about the plants and their importance to Indigenous life and culture.
“June is National Indigenous History Month — a time to recognize the achievements and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples,” says Kate Fenske, CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. “The Indigenous Garden is a living celebration downtown of one aspect of Indigenous culture and traditions.”
“APTN is proud and delighted to once again support the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Indigenous Garden,” says APTN CEO, Monika Ille. “Soon to be bursting with life, this garden provides a sacred space for ceremony, healing and reconnecting with our traditions and community.”
Plants in the Garden will include bergamot, giant blue hyssop, prairie sage, big bluestem, little bluestem and thyme — all of which will be added to the existing cedars and sweet grass.
The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ intends for the Indigenous Garden to increase community experience, promote understanding of Indigenous culture and improve the visual landscape of downtown, in addition to:
- Bringing communities together
- Building a common experience
- Promoting a conversation and education about Indigenous culture and tradition
- Beautifying the city block
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MEDIA INQUIRIES
Pamela Hardman, Director of Marketing, Engagement and Communications
Cell: 204-806-2506, Email: Pamela@downtownwinnipegbiz.com