‘Solidarity Weekend’ a success in Peterborough

Submitted by John Fox

PETERBOROUGH – Over 1000 people came out to events over the weekend in Peterborough to combat a bad element. Events were held at Confederation park, Millennium Park, Emmanuel church.  A sacred fire was lit at the Peterborough armories.

Friday, Sept. 29 was a day dedicated to “chalk day”.  This day began by writing by chalk on side walks, bill boards posting positive messages in the community of diversity, community and values.   What we saw as a good community turn out and the people coming together.

On Saturday, the opening ceremonies started by our Elders, resource people and opening prayer.  Smudging was done by Crystal Scrimshaw throughout the day to all participants.    The territory of this area was acknowledged by the speakers which is known as “Anishnawbek territory”.

Throughout the day, speakers presented on various issues including messages of hope, working together for a better community and the negative impacts of racism and how to overcome them.    It was a very powerful event for all would be participants.

The weekend of Solidarity was topped off on Sunday by a sharing circle, food sharing, a smudge and  a prayer at the Confederation park.

Many of the non-native participants expressed a strong willingness to continue working together and maintaining a good positive community.

We all agreed and some initiatives were already well on there way with the local police force to accommodate the discussions and sub committee’s to work with Canadians on education, awareness, Indigenous protocols and the like.   It was a very positive circle.

Before this weekend, I was under the impression that my community was an unfriendly place and a cold experience. With this most positive experience, I have changed my thinking to what my community is.   A place of love, kindness and caring.

In unity.

John Fox.

Formerly of Wikwemikong living in Peterborough.

Editor’s note: 

Solidarity Weekend organizers feel they succeeded in their goals to:

1) be a visible presence of solidarity with communities targeted by colonialism, racism, Islamophobia, anti-Jewishness, and xenophobia;

2) expose the true intentions of the planned “anti-immigration” rally;

3) to continue the work of relationship building on the territory of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabe and the Haudenosaunnee, and to recommit ourselves to addressing our ongoing colonial history, and dismantling the white supremacy at the root of our society.