News release details

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) will host a celebration of sharing and gratitude for the knowledge gifts of Indigenous Elders that underpin the new Mikinak‐Keya Spirit Tour.

Media are invited to attend the free public event on Wednesday evening, which will feature dancing, stories and song, including seven young dancers accompanied by singer/drummer Ray Coco Stevenson. The museum's interpretative guides and an Indigenous Elder will interpret the story of the White Buffalo Calf Woman and the origins of the Sacred Pipe, which will be significant parts of the tour. Architectural historian Dr. Frank Albo will explain the connection of the stories to elements of the building's architecture. Elder David Courchene will speak about the unique gift offered by Indigenous Elders through the sharing of the seven sacred teachings in order to inspire people to honour human rights and the rights of the child.

What: Celebration of Indigenous Spirit Tour
When: Wednesday, June 17, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Bonnie & John Buhler Hall, CMHR (85 Israel Asper Way)

Starting on July 4, the Mikinak‐Keya tour will be offered at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings and at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings. Visitors must pre‐register by calling 204–289-2227 or by emailing visitor.services@humanrights.ca. The tour costs $15 per person plus admission. The 90‐minute program and the Spirit Tour itself were co‐created by the Elders Circle Seven – a group representing Anishnabe, Cree and Dakota Nations brought together by the Turtle Lodge, working in partnership with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.