Indigenous cultural gathering space coming to Police Point Park

The space recognizes the historical and ongoing relationship Indigenous Peoples have with Police Point Park and the surrounding landscape, including traditional gathering, harvesting and connections to the South Saskatchewan River.

“Having a dedicated space within Police Point Park creates an opportunity for Indigenous people to see that our cultures, traditions, ceremonies, and ways of knowing have a meaningful place within the broader community,” Miywasin Friendship Centre cultural connections coordinator Mekethia Fairbanks said in a statement.

“This space represents the Blackfoot teaching of Isspomaanitpiisinii, which means to help one another— to intentionally come together and work toward a common goal.”

Fairbanks said the project was made possible through collaboration between the Miywasin Friendship Centre, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department and Indigenous Relations Office.

“We are grateful to see this shared vision come to fruition and look forward to this space serving the Indigenous community, fostering understanding and connection, and creating a place of belonging for generations to come,” Fairbanks said.

The cultural gathering space will be officially designated following a ground blessing by Elder Warren One Gun on Friday, Aug. 28, at 11 a.m. The blessing will be held with the support of the Miywasin Friendship Centre and is open to the community.

Attendees are asked to bring a chair or blanket. Members of the public are also asked to respect the purpose of the space and follow any cultural protocols, signage or guidance provided.

The designation comes as part of the city’s ongoing reconciliation efforts, recognizing Indigenous Peoples as the original stewards of the land, including Treaty 7 and Treaty 4 territories and the homelands of the Métis Nation within District 2, Battle River Territory.

“It has been a privilege for Parks and Recreation to work collaboratively with our City partners and the Miywasin Friendship Centre on this initiative,” City of Medicine Hat manager of Parks, Orlando Whetter, said.

“We are proud to support a project that honours culture, promotes understanding, and contributes to meaningful reconciliation efforts within our community.”

Whetter said the project reflects the city’s continued efforts to strengthen relationships with Indigenous Peoples.

“We’re grateful to the Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, community members, and partners whose guidance continues to shape this initiative,” Whetter said.

Following the ground blessing, the space will be available to book for cultural purposes.

Applications can be made through the Bookings and Rentals page in the Parks and Recreation section of the City of Medicine Hat’s website.

by Jesse Gill

Indigenous cultural gathering space coming to Police Point Park

Our Community