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CTV News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
‘To come home': Back to Batoche Days wraps up
Image shows 71-year-old Marion Gonneville in the jigging finals on Sunday. (CTV News/Stacey Hein) After four days of celebrating Métis culture and community, Back to Batoche Days wrapped up Sunday evening. Elder Norman Fleury described the festival as one big family reunion. 'We're bringing people home here,' said Fleury, a provincial elder with Métis Nation–Saskatchewan. 'This is a place to connect with your distinction, with your identity, your music, your stories, your dance, your languages.' Fleury says roughly 40,000 people attended the event to reunite and connect with their community. Back to Batoche Days features cultural music, dancing, entertainment and competitions. Many Métis artists also set up shop during the festival. Miguel Vielfaure owns Etchiboy, a Winnipeg-based business specializing in a variety of Métis items, including arrowed sashes. 'It's probably where there's the most amount of Métis people gathering in one weekend. So, for me, it's my biggest weekend of the year,' Vielfaure said. Back to Batoche Days is internationally recognized as a significant Métis cultural celebration, welcoming people from across Canada and beyond. Marion Gonneville, 71, travelled from Vancouver to attend the festival and take part in the jigging competitions. 'To come home and to be among your own people, you feel really good,' Gonneville said. Ron DesJarlais travelled 710 kilometres from Rocky Mountain House, Alta., to attend the festival for the second time. 'Everybody's just so friendly and gives you that welcome feeling,' he said.

Associated Press
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
ESSENCE GU® and Kensington Grey Partner to Power a New Standard for Creator Culture at ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® Presented By Coca-Cola®
NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 9, 2025-- At the nation's largest celebration of global Black culture, two creative forces partnered together to raise the bar for creators. ESSENCE GU ® (ESSENCE Girls United) and Kensington Grey, the premier talent agency for Black digital storytellers, partnered during the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture ® presented by Coca-Cola ® to present a weekend of high-impact, content-forward experiences built by and for today's most influential voices. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: At the heart of this collaboration was a shared mission: elevate Black creators not just as talent—but as industry leaders, cultural architects, and the future of storytelling. The ESSENCE GU ® x Kensington Grey Creator Mixer: A Cultural Convergence On Saturday, July 5th, the invite-only, #KGxGUHouseMixer, the crown jewel of the partnership, brought together a dynamic networking experience designed to spark collaboration across industries with an elite roster of Kensington Grey talent, creators on the rise, brand partners, and ESSENCE GU ® tastemakers for an afternoon of curated conversation, intentional connection, and content creation featuring J.C. Carter, Scot Louie, and Justine's Camera Roll. 'The ESSENCE Festival Of Culture ® has become a rite of passage for creators, on par with New York Fashion Week and Coachella. It's one of the largest and most culturally significant festivals in the world, and brands are increasingly turning to creators as the primary source of on-the-ground amplification. Whether it's a chance celebrity sighting, a standout culinary moment, or capturing the city's stunning architecture, the opportunities for viral storytelling are endless because there really is no place like New Orleans.' said Shannae Ingleton, co-founder of Kensington Grey. 'Partnering with ESSENCE on the GU ® Creator Mixer was an easy 'yes' for us at Kensington Grey. For starters, the ESSENCE brand is iconic, and our missions are perfectly aligned when it comes to celebrating creators, art, community, and culture. We're confident this is the first of many collaborations like this one.' ESSENCE GU ® Creator House & Kickback: The Full Weekend Vision The ESSENCE GU ® x Kensington Grey alliance extended beyond one moment. Throughout the weekend: 'Black women are forever the blueprint — and at ESSENCE Girls United ®, we build for us, by us, because we love us. By joining forces with a visionary agency like Kensington Grey, we're stepping beyond creating content to cultivate long-lasting legacy, connection, and joy, said Rechelle Dennis, co-founder and brand lead of ESSENCE Girls United ®. 'Together, we're designing a new pathway where creativity flourishes, culture leads, and the next generation of storytellers can rise unapologetically.' Through ushering in a new generation, this partnership between ESSENCE GU ® (ESSENCE Girls United) and Kensington Grey activates a powerful truth: when Black creators are centered, supported, and seen, the results are unforgettable. ABOUT SUNDIAL MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY GROUP Sundial Media & Technology Group (SMTG) is a human connections company — the signal powered by culture, scaled by technology, and built for community. SMTG connects, elevates, and empowers the most influential consumer segment in the market: HER, the Chief Influence Officer. With over 100 years of community knowledge and insights, SMTG is redefining the media model into a next-generation platform. Powered by proprietary intelligence and AI technology, it activates an ecosystem that scales HER influence and economic power. Its portfolio includes some of the most iconic, purpose-driven brands and experiences shaping culture today—ESSENCE (Girls United, ESSENCE Studios, ESSENCE Festival of Culture ® ), Refinery29, AFROPUNK, Beautycon™ (including NaturallyCurly), the Global Black Economic Forum, the Academy for Advancing Excellence, and the New Voices Fund. Through storytelling, products, and platforms, SMTG delivers the tools and technology to shape the future of media, commerce, and community—on HER terms. ABOUT ESSENCE COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA GROUP INC. ESSENCE Communications is the number one—and only 100% Black-owned—media, technology and commerce company at scale dedicated to Black women and communities. With a community of more than 31 million Black women, ESSENCE inspires a global audience through diverse storytelling and immersive original content rooted in Culture, Equity and Celebration. The brand's multi-platform presence in/ publishing, experiential and online encompasses its namesake magazine; digital, video and social platforms; television specials; books; and signature live events, including Black Women in Music, Black Women in Hollywood, ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, Fashion House, Street Style and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture ®. ABOUT KENSINGTON GREY Founded in 2019, Kensington Grey's mission is to invest in the moments that matter and advocate for groundbreaking opportunities, turning visionary talents into lifelong changemakers. Through expert influencer casting, talent, strategy, and campaign management, Kensington Grey creates impactful legacies, delivering exceptional results and supporting its clients in driving lasting social change. Kensington Grey commits to empowering the underrepresented voices of tomorrow by providing the platform and support needed to turn revolutionary ideas into reality. The agency's distinctive promise lies in its tailored approach to brand and influencer management, which focuses not just on growth but on inclusive and meaningful impact. View source version on CONTACT: [email protected] [email protected] KEYWORD: LOUISIANA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS/CONCERTS CONSUMER AFRICAN AMERICAN CELEBRITY PUBLISHING MARKETING MUSIC WOMEN ADVERTISING COMMUNICATIONS SOURCE: ESSENCE Communications Media Group Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 07/09/2025 11:52 AM/DISC: 07/09/2025 11:52 AM


Associated Press
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Statement - Ministers Chartrand, Alty, and Gull-Masty issue statement on Nunavut Day
OTTAWA, ON, July 9, 2025 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for CanNor, the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, and the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, issued the following statement today: 'On Nunavut Day, we celebrate the culture, strength, and achievements of Nunavummiut. This day marks a key moment in our shared history when the Nunavut Agreement was signed, which led to the creation of Nunavut and the protection of Inuit rights to land, culture, and self-determination. Nunavummiut have kept Inuktitut and Inuit traditions strong, and continue to protect the environment while building healthy communities. Their leadership continues to shape a better future for all. Together with the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, we are working to fully implement the Nunavut Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement, the largest land transfer in Canadian history. This means Nunavummiut will have more control over their land, water, and natural resources and benefit from development that is responsible and sustainable. Today, we honour the leadership of Nunavummiut and commit to building a future based on respect, environmental care, economic growth, and northern-led jobs—a future where Nunavummiut lead the way for generations to come. Happy Nunavut Day! Quviasugissi Nunavut ullungani!' Stay connected Join the conversation about the North: X: GovCan_North Facebook: GovCan – North You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The B-Side Announces First Annual "Best Day Ever" Festival in August
Tickets Now Available for the Immersive Celebration of Culture, Music, Art and Food to Bring the Perfect Day to Life for Young Bostonians BOSTON, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Globe Media's The B-Side announces the inaugural "Best Day Ever" festival on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Artists For Humanity located at 100 W 2nd Street in Boston. The vibrant, community-focused event was designed to bring a young Bostonian's "perfect day" to life. The "Best Day Ever" festival will feature interactive experiences and activities, including The B-Side Soundstage, showcasing top local and national musical talent such as Emi Grace, Winkler, Latrell James, and Simon Robert French. In partnership with Select Markets, fashion-forward attendees are invited to explore 20+ vendors at a curated vintage and boutique market. Foodies will enjoy culinary items from 15+ of Boston's hottest restaurants, including: Amba Anna's Taqueria Baramor Bardo's Blackbird Doughnuts Clover Cocorico Dumpling Daughter El Barco Greco Jahunger Levain Love Art Sushi Saloniki Summer Shack The Half Cookie "We're thrilled to launch 'Best Day Ever' and bring the best parts of The B-Side newsletter outside readers' inboxes, whether it's cool fashion finds, delicious food, or live local music," said Emily Schario, director of multimedia storytelling and head of content for The B-Side. "We crafted this one-of-a-kind festival to connect with Boston's next generation, providing them a space to discover new music, taste unique dishes, and express their style." The B-Side is part of which is included in the media portfolio of Boston Globe Media. The daily newsletter and social-first product is a combination of content, culture, and conversation designed to deliver stories and experiences that resonate with a young, influential community in Boston. To read a sample and subscribe to the weekly morning newsletter, visit The B-Side. Learn more about B-Side's "Best Day Ever" festival at Contact: Boston Globe Media Communications Team, communications@ About Boston Globe Media: Boston Globe Media Partners, LLC is a locally owned, award-winning media company serving Boston and New England for over 153 years. Its cornerstone is The Boston Globe, a 27-time Pulitzer Prize-winning news source and one of the most successful metro news organizations in the United States. The Globe is headquartered in Boston with regional bureaus in Washington, D.C., Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. The Globe has been successfully growing its direct subscriber base, today boasting the highest total number of subscribers the organization has had since 2008. The Globe hosts events that connect community members to its journalism and provides a range of digital and home-delivered advertising solutions that reach more consumers than any other New England media brand. Boston Globe Media's portfolio includes The Boston Globe, STAT, Globe Opinion, The B-Side, Boston magazine, Globe Events, Studio/B, and Globe Publishing Services. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Boston Globe Media Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data


SBS Australia
07-07-2025
- Health
- SBS Australia
NAIDOC: Celebrating First Nations excellence
Songs sung in Kalaw Kawaw Ya, a language from the western and central Torres Strait Islands, opening this year's National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony. The annual awards honour Indigenous excellence, recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people whose work improves the lives of others in their communities and beyond. Co-Chair of the ceremony, Steven Satour says the 2025 celebration is an especially momentous one, marking five decades since NAIDOC week was established to honour and elevate Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. "50 years. That's how long this movement has been growing, holding us and reminding this nation who we are tonight, we honor that journey and celebrate the strength, the spirit, and the stories that got us here." The prestigious NAIDOC Person of the Year award this year recognising one Jaru and Indjibarndi man's trailblazing work in Indigenous health- "Ok, this is it. The big one- the 2025 National NAIDOC Person of the Year award goes to Dr Daniel Hunt." Dr Hunt is a General Practitioner and Dentist, and has worked widely in the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation sector. He is the Deputy Chair of the Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infection Advisory Committee for Western Australia, and has made major contributions to managing the Australian Syphilis epidemic. He says this years' NAIDOC week theme- The Next Generation: Strength, vision and legacy- resonates with his own way of thinking about advocacy and how positive change builds over time. "Legacy is the thing that I turn to most because it is what I look at, look back at when I do any of the work I do, or the advocacy that I have for Aboriginal Health because it is those who have come before us, those trailblazers who really have paved the way for how we conduct themselves. One of our elders at the previous organization I worked at, we used to speak about how much work there is to do in Aboriginal healthcare, but we also have to really look at the amazing work that we have done." He says the honour of being awarded NAIDOC Person of the Year is one he shares with all other nominees and recipients. "We have to be absolutely proud of what has been accomplished and what all the amazing people accomplished. I'm incredibly proud, the term Black Excellence can't be expressed enough. When I see what is happening in Australia and in this room and the people who have won the awards this evening, these awards aren't all any individual awards. Hannah and Bianca, these are our awards because this is the work of everyone that has come before us." Among the other nine recipients, AFL legend and influential Indigenous rights advocate Michael Long has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2004, the Anmatjere and Marranunggu man walked from Melbourne to Canberra to call the government to action on Indigenous issues. His leadership inspired the birth of The Long Walk — a national movement for reconciliation, education, action and unity. Mr Long says his career in AFL has given him the strength and opportunity he's been determined to give back to others. "I just want to say this game has given me so much, but hopefully I've given back and has created an opportunity and pathway for so many of our young men and women. This is an award I'll treasure." Alongside Mr Hunt and Mr Long, Rosalie Kickett has been honoured as Female Elder of the Year. The award recognises Ms Kickett's work in mental health support, suicide prevention and women's safety, as well as her dedication to empowering First Nations incarcerated men. "I'm truly honored and I'm truly humbled, deeply humbled. Honestly, I still am a little shocked. I never expected this. I never walked this path for recognition. I did it for my community here, for my mort ((mob)), my family, and for those who no longer have a voice." It was loss of life in her own community that motivated Ms Kickett to train others in suicide prevention. "After all the loss of suicides in my hometown, I thought I wanted to make a difference. So I went and even though I mental health practitioner, I thought I needed to take this mental health first aid out into the communities." This years' Youth Award has gone to another woman dedicated to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health- Anika Gosling, a young Wadjuk Noongar woman who works as a School Psychologist. 25 year old Danielle Ponter has also been recognised at the ceremony- celebrated for her achievements with the Sportsperson Award. The Marranunggu and Anmatjere woman is a two-time premiership AFLW player, and she says her uncle, co-award winner Michael Long, has been her inspiration. "I'm here tonight with my uncle Michael Long and the rest of my family, and to have someone like that, a part of my family and to not turn out the way that I have, it would be crazy. He's done so much work for our community and I grew up around that. So it's been instilled in me from a young age, and that's why I do the things that I do, and it's why I'm so passionate about giving back to community because it's been around me my whole life." For Natasha Wanganeen, Finalist for the Creative Talent Award, this years NAIDOC theme 'The Next Generation: Strength, vision and legacy', is all about this celebration of cross-generational impact and change. "A lot of trailblazers have made this happen for us over the years, so it is beautiful to see everybody in the next generation come up and just celebrate each other."