Latest news with #NationalIndigenousHistoryMonth
National Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- National Post
Casinos.com Announces Results From Tribal Gaming Community Impact Voting
Article content tallied votes from residents across numerous states and provinces, with locals voting on the tribal or First Nation casinos that have had the most significant impact on their local communities. Article content CHARLOTTE, N.C. — has revealed the voting results for the tribal and First Nation casinos across the U.S. and Canada that have had the greatest impact on their local communities. Article content Article content Voted entirely by locals, the results recognize standout casino venues across four U.S. states and three Canadian provinces where tribal and First Nations gaming venues have a heavy presence. Locals were asked to vote for the casino in their area that has had the most significant community impact, whether that be through funding and donations or excellent entertainment services. Article content Voting Recognizes Seven Standout Casinos for Cultural Impact Article content The public voting campaign was conducted as part of Tribal Casinos Month initiative, dedicated to honoring the achievements, cultural contributions, and economic impact of Indigenous-owned and operated casinos across Canada and the United States. Article content This month-long spotlight aligned with National Indigenous History Month in Canada and complemented broader efforts to recognize the sovereignty of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Native American communities. Article content 'We're proud to help shine a spotlight on these tribal and First Nation casinos,' said Lee Gwilliam, SVP at 'These are organizations that go above and beyond to deliver meaningful change to their communities. The results reflect the thoughts of the community in terms of not only entertainment excellence, but dedication to cultural preservation, economic resilience, and community uplift.' Article content United States Winners (percentage of votes in each area): Article content Michigan Article content – Soaring Eagle Casino (53%) Article content Operated by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, Soaring Eagle Casino was recognized for its commitment to education, health initiatives, and economic development in the central Michigan region. From scholarships to infrastructure investment, voters praised the casino's broad and lasting contributions. Article content The Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center is directly funded and supported by casino-generated revenue. The Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort routinely awards the Au Gres–Sims School District and Isabella County educational entities with grants that go beyond the 2% revenue-sharing program and fund initiatives such as Chromebook access, STEM curriculum and digital learning. Article content Florida Article content – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa (54%) Article content With deep roots in community outreach and cultural celebration, the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa was honored for its high-profile support of local nonprofit organizations, disaster relief funding, and job creation across the Tampa Bay area. Article content Recently, the Seminole Hard Rock made a hefty donation to disaster relief efforts targeting communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It supports World Central Kitchen and the American Red Cross. Casino's COVID-19 efforts included donating food to Metropolitan Ministries. Article content California Article content The Yaamava' Resort & Casino, owned by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, was commended for its philanthropic leadership and expansive health, housing, and education programs that benefit the Inland Empire and beyond. Article content Casino famously supported wildfire relief with a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross. Its $200,000 grant to the Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House provided housing for families of critically ill children being treated at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Article content Oklahoma Article content A beacon of economic empowerment in southern Oklahoma, WinStar, operated by the Chickasaw Nation, earned distinction for driving regional growth, supporting healthcare access, and preserving Indigenous heritage. Article content The Chickasaw Nation has prioritized healthcare by establishing the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center and is invested in renewable energy projects. Article content Canadian Winners: Article content Ontario Article content Owned by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Casino Rama stood out for its long-standing support of local arts, youth services, and Indigenous language revitalization efforts. Article content Casino Rama is big on local arts initiatives, so they enjoy supporting language revitalization projects like Ojibwe classes overseen by the Culture and Research Department and local Indigenous education charities such as Inspire. Article content Alberta Article content – River Cree Resort and Casino (51%) Article content This Enoch Cree Nation enterprise was recognized for its focus on employment opportunities, cultural awareness initiatives, and sustained investment in wellness and community development across Alberta. Article content Through partnerships like the Enoch-Aecon Joint Venture, the Nation works on expanding trades training for Indigenous workers. The Nation also collaborates with educational advocates like Ever Active Schools, which described their work together as 'a partnership, a friendship, and a commitment to the wellbeing of the community.' Article content Saskatchewan Article content – Dakota Dunes Casino (56%) Article content Operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), Dakota Dunes Casino led voter sentiment for its impactful community programs, including education funding and mental health services in partnership with First Nations organizations. Article content Dakota Dunes opened a new mental health clinic with on-site access to counseling and wellness support. Major grants were awarded, such as $100,000 for Team Saskatchewan at the North American Indigenous Games, $100,000 to FSIN for a powwow, and $50,000 to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, each supporting Indigenous cultural development. Article content In 2023, SIGA committed $1.89 million across its casino markets to support food security, mental health services, and Indigenous youth programs, as detailed in the SIGA Annual Report 2023. Article content About and Group Article content is a leading source for casino news, reviews, and rankings, serving players around the world. It is part of Group Limited (Nasdaq: GAMB), a publicly traded company that operates more than 50 websites dedicated to helping consumers navigate regulated gambling markets. Article content Group provides trusted resources for bettors and players through editorial content, rankings, product comparisons, and expert insights, with a mission to support safe and informed entertainment. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
Business Wire
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Casinos.com Announces Results From Tribal Gaming Community Impact Voting
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- has revealed the voting results for the tribal and First Nation casinos across the U.S. and Canada that have had the greatest impact on their local communities. Voted entirely by locals, the results recognize standout casino venues across four U.S. states and three Canadian provinces where tribal and First Nations gaming venues have a heavy presence. Locals were asked to vote for the casino in their area that has had the most significant community impact, whether that be through funding and donations or excellent entertainment services. Voting Recognizes Seven Standout Casinos for Cultural Impact The public voting campaign was conducted as part of Tribal Casinos Month initiative, dedicated to honoring the achievements, cultural contributions, and economic impact of Indigenous-owned and operated casinos across Canada and the United States. This month-long spotlight aligned with National Indigenous History Month in Canada and complemented broader efforts to recognize the sovereignty of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Native American communities. 'We're proud to help shine a spotlight on these tribal and First Nation casinos,' said Lee Gwilliam, SVP at 'These are organizations that go above and beyond to deliver meaningful change to their communities. The results reflect the thoughts of the community in terms of not only entertainment excellence, but dedication to cultural preservation, economic resilience, and community uplift.' United States Winners (percentage of votes in each area): Michigan – Soaring Eagle Casino (53%) Operated by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, Soaring Eagle Casino was recognized for its commitment to education, health initiatives, and economic development in the central Michigan region. From scholarships to infrastructure investment, voters praised the casino's broad and lasting contributions. The Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center is directly funded and supported by casino-generated revenue. The Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort routinely awards the Au Gres–Sims School District and Isabella County educational entities with grants that go beyond the 2% revenue-sharing program and fund initiatives such as Chromebook access, STEM curriculum and digital learning. Florida – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa (54%) With deep roots in community outreach and cultural celebration, the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa was honored for its high-profile support of local nonprofit organizations, disaster relief funding, and job creation across the Tampa Bay area. Recently, the Seminole Hard Rock made a hefty donation to disaster relief efforts targeting communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It supports World Central Kitchen and the American Red Cross. Casino's COVID-19 efforts included donating food to Metropolitan Ministries. California – Yaamava' Resort & Casino (44%) The Yaamava' Resort & Casino, owned by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, was commended for its philanthropic leadership and expansive health, housing, and education programs that benefit the Inland Empire and beyond. Casino famously supported wildfire relief with a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross. Its $200,000 grant to the Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House provided housing for families of critically ill children being treated at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Oklahoma – WinStar World Casino and Resort (49%) A beacon of economic empowerment in southern Oklahoma, WinStar, operated by the Chickasaw Nation, earned distinction for driving regional growth, supporting healthcare access, and preserving Indigenous heritage. The Chickasaw Nation has prioritized healthcare by establishing the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center and is invested in renewable energy projects. Canadian Winners: Ontario – Casino Rama Resort (55%) Owned by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Casino Rama stood out for its long-standing support of local arts, youth services, and Indigenous language revitalization efforts. Casino Rama is big on local arts initiatives, so they enjoy supporting language revitalization projects like Ojibwe classes overseen by the Culture and Research Department and local Indigenous education charities such as Inspire. Alberta – River Cree Resort and Casino (51%) This Enoch Cree Nation enterprise was recognized for its focus on employment opportunities, cultural awareness initiatives, and sustained investment in wellness and community development across Alberta. Through partnerships like the Enoch-Aecon Joint Venture, the Nation works on expanding trades training for Indigenous workers. The Nation also collaborates with educational advocates like Ever Active Schools, which described their work together as 'a partnership, a friendship, and a commitment to the wellbeing of the community.' Saskatchewan – Dakota Dunes Casino (56%) Operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), Dakota Dunes Casino led voter sentiment for its impactful community programs, including education funding and mental health services in partnership with First Nations organizations. Dakota Dunes opened a new mental health clinic with on-site access to counseling and wellness support. Major grants were awarded, such as $100,000 for Team Saskatchewan at the North American Indigenous Games, $100,000 to FSIN for a powwow, and $50,000 to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, each supporting Indigenous cultural development. In 2023, SIGA committed $1.89 million across its casino markets to support food security, mental health services, and Indigenous youth programs, as detailed in the SIGA Annual Report 2023. About and Group is a leading source for casino news, reviews, and rankings, serving players around the world. It is part of Group Limited (Nasdaq: GAMB), a publicly traded company that operates more than 50 websites dedicated to helping consumers navigate regulated gambling markets. Group provides trusted resources for bettors and players through editorial content, rankings, product comparisons, and expert insights, with a mission to support safe and informed entertainment. This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including projections or expectations related to Actual results may differ materially due to various risks and uncertainties. For more information, visit
Hamilton Spectator
03-07-2025
- General
- Hamilton Spectator
Celebrated poet Gimaa R. Stacey Laforme reflects on Grief, Hope, and Reconciliation
During National Indigenous History Month, residents were invited to join in a night of words and reflection by celebrated poet and storyteller Gimaa R. Stacey Laforme. The event, hosted by the Town of Caledon and IDEA Caledon, allowed attendees to gain insights into the power of poetry as art, as told by Laforme. Laforme, previously Chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN), has been serving his community for more than 20 years. Laforme shared poems from his books, Living in the Tall Grass and Love, Life, Loss, and a Little Bit of Hope: Poems from the Soul. His poetry collections invite non-Indigenous people to see through the eyes of Indigenous people, exploring topics such as peace and humanity, grief, trauma, and hope, while also drawing from his own life experiences. 'There's things within the books that I write that are about raising consciousness, not just living in the moment. Enjoy your moments, life is made up of moments. But we have an obligation to the future and you can't always meet that obligation by living in the moment,' shared Laforme. He began writing poetry in Grade 8, and after that, picked it back up after his mother passed when he was only 29. 'I don't know why I chose poetry, but I chose poetry instead of writing about it. And then from there, I just kept writing,' said Laforme. Laforme shared that he feels he can do good things more broadly through his work now than he could during his time as chief. 'I always felt constrained by the role of being a political leader in a First Nation because I always wanted to do more for more people,' said Laforme. 'I enjoy this side of it better, interacting with many different people from many different backgrounds.' 'One of the greatest things that we need to remember is we're all in this together,' shared Laforme. 'But sometimes we're asking the wrong questions. Because we're thinking of the moment. We're not thinking of the big picture. We should be asking those other questions, those hard questions. And that'll change the dynamic in how we see other people.' Standing at the front of the room, Laforme wore a red ribbon shirt with an eagle and ribbons along the back and sides. Red symbolizes missing and murdered indigenous women, the eagle represents one of the most important animals in the Anishinaabe indigenous world view, and the ribbons are a symbol of remembrance and support for Indigenous residential school survivors and those who did not return home. Laforme read his poem titled Reconciliation. 'I sit here crying I don't know why I didn't know the children I didn't know the parents But I knew their spirit I knew their love I know their loss I know their potential And I am overwhelmed By the pain and the hurt The pain of the families and friends The pain of an entire people Unable to protect them, to help them To comfort them, to love them I did not know them But the pain is so real, so personal I feel it in my core, my heart, my spirit I sit here crying and I am not ashamed I will cry for them, and the many others like them I will cry for you, I will cry for me I'll cry for the what could have been Then I will calm myself, smudge myself, offer prayers And know they are no longer in pain No longer do they hurt, they are at peace In time I will tell their story, I will educate society So their memory is not lost to this world And when I am asked what does Reconciliation mean to me I will say I want their lives back I want them to live, to soar I want to hear their laughter See their smiles Give me that And I'll grant you reconciliation.' 'We all know there were children left behind. But it's one thing to know that. It's another thing to have the TV come on and slap you right in the face with that information. I was sad. I was hurt. I was angry. I felt someone's love and sympathy for the family. And so, I sat down and wrote, Reconciliation,' he shared. 'Because these aren't just indigenous children. These are the children of this country. These are our children.' When people ask Laforme what they can do, whether by donating or raising awareness, Laforme tells them to get together with their community. 'Do something in your own backyard that means something to you, something that you won't forget.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Hamilton Spectator
27-06-2025
- General
- Hamilton Spectator
3 Burlington spaces to learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture
In recognition of National Indigenous History Month in June, and National Indigenous Peoples' Day — which was celebrated June 21 , here are details of three spaces in the City of Burlington where all residents can learn about, reflect on, and celebrate Indigenous culture. The Healing Forest at Paletta Park was completed earlier this year, and features new signs along the existing loop trail at the Lake Ontario waterfront. It centres on a self-guided walk that helps connect with, and learn about, healing elements within the forest through Anishinaabe knowledge and language. Each trail sign includes information on local plants and birds, and a QR code to provide visitors with more information on their smartphone. The project was realized through collaboration of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in the spirit of reconciliation, to develop a unique space for healing, community, and connection to nature. Local organizers partnered with Joseph Pitawanakwat of Creators Garden , National Healing Forests and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation to complete the project. The City of Burlington provided $10,000 from its Community Matching Fund program to support the project in its 4280 Lakeshore Rd. park. Sweetgrass Park located at 565 Woodview Rd. has reopened following an improvement project that celebrates Indigenous culture, teachings and enhances community access to nature and learning. The revitalized park features a ceremonial circle designed for full moon and other traditional ceremonies and a contemplative area near Tuck Creek. Full moon ceremonies are anticipated to begin at Sweetgrass Park this fall. The project included natural stone seating known as 'wisdom' stones and sweetgrass plantings. The park features a new asphalt pathway connecting to Centennial Trail, surrounded by native tree plantings and pollinator perennials. Later this summer, two special custom benches are expected to be installed in the park to support the Moccasin Identifier Project , an Indigenous-led initiative increasing awareness and understanding of Indigenous treaties and history across Canada. The City of Burlington received an anonymous donation that funded part of this project. The City of Burlington unveiled a mural and a dedicated Indigenous events space at Mountainside Recreation Centre ( 2205 Mt. Forest Dr. ) The community room's mural, 'Our Voices Carry the Land,' by Indigenous artist Tessa Lynne Chartrand, opened for public viewing on June 23 after a private unveiling June 22. Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and the Mayor's Indigenous Advisory Circle, including Kate Dickson, WhiteEagle Stonefish, and Stephen Paquette, celebrated the mural's unveiling with a ceremony of reflection and celebration. The mural is inspired by the phrase 'All My Relations' and speaks to connections between people, land and all living beings. Featuring Mount Nemo, the piece honours the territory we stand on and invites reflection, inclusivity and unity. Community Room 2 is now serving as a priority venue for Indigenous ceremonies, gatherings, teachings, and outreach — free of charge for Halton Indigenous community members. While this renewed focus guides the room's purpose with priority booking for Halton's Indigenous community, the space will remain accessible for bookings and programming by everyone. For booking inquiries, visit the City of Burlington website . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Hamilton Spectator
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
National Indigenous Peoples Day Observed at Batoche
Although Indigenous History Month is wrapping up, Batoche has stories and history that last longer than one month. National Indigenous History Month was first designated by the federal government in 2009. 'National Indigenous History Month gives us the chance to celebrate Indigenous cultures and honour the many contributions of Indigenous people to this great province,' Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. 'We encourage everyone to take part in the events planned and continue learning about the experiences and cultural diversity of Indigenous Peoples.' The Ministry of Government Relations supports events across the province through its First Nations and Métis Sponsorships grant program, which helps fund events that promote reconciliation, cultural understanding, and benefit Indigenous people in the areas of either education, employment, professional development, cultural celebrations or honouring veterans and Elders. Every June, communities across Saskatchewan host a variety of events including walking tours, cultural workshops, film screenings, exhibitions and public education opportunities. The highlight of the month's celebrations includes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year. In 1996, Governor General Roméo LeBlanc declared June 21 National Aboriginal Day. In 2017, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the day would be renamed National Indigenous Peoples Day. At Batoche, seven busloads of school children engaged with staff and volunteers to learn more about the Métis people. The celebratory event was hosted in partnership with the Gabriel Dumont Institute ahead of National Indigenous Peoples Day, on Friday, June 20, to enable school classes to participate. Gabriel Dumont Institute is a non-profit corporation serving the educational and cultural needs of the Saskatchewan Métis and Non-Status Indian community and is the officially-designated education arm of the Métis Nation—Saskatchewan. Elder Harriet St. Pierre opened the day's celebrations with a prayer, and Adam, the acting manager of the Batoche National Historic Site, manned the microphone for the opening ceremonies. In his opening remarks, Adam acknowledged that the day was one to honour, not only the past, but also to celebrate the vibrant cultures that continue to thrive today. He spoke to the students about the significance of the day, how it is not only the summer solstice, but also a day of spiritual and cultural significance to Indigenous people as it marks a time of renewal, connection to nature, and celebration. The day is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis and their important role in advancing self-determination and sustainable futures rooted in Indigenous world views. Parks Canada has numerous partnerships with Indigenous peoples across Canada, including shared stewardship in operations and management of places administered by Parks Canada. Karen Shmon, Director of the Gabriel Dumont Institute Publishing, also welcomed the students, saying that they have the opportunity not only on June 21, but throughout the year to learn more about one another so that we can be respectful and live harmoniously together. There have been monumental changes in Canada, and they have not all been positive. She encouraged the students to take it upon themselves to learn more about our history and Indigenous peoples, and that will set the stage for a future where all really can be friends and neighbours. She also explained about the Métis sash and acknowledged the relevant analogy used by Adam in his opening remarks. Adam said that the fabric of Canada is fraught with holes, patches, tears and stitches. It is also formed of good threads… of people who want to understand and work on building good relationships with each other. Shmon noted that the strands of the sash are very thin, but when they are all together, they are strong. The sash's main purpose was that of a belt, but it could also be used as a rope, a tally, a tumpline, a towel, a tote, and even a sewing kit. Anyone, she said, can wear a Métis sash, as long as it is treated with respect. Northern Spirit Singers shared an Honour Song before local resident, Victor Guillet, president of Métis Local 51, also welcomed everyone to the celebration. As well, Métis Local #51 citizens, Val Gaudet and Carol Roy, demonstrated their Bannock making talent, while Liana Letendre taught the attending Grade 4 students pointillism, a painting style that uses small dots of colour to create images. Then it was Donny Parenteau's turn to entertain with stories of how he started playing the fiddle at 11 years old. His grandfather was a fiddle player who was born in Saint Laurent but died when Donny was only 3 years old. Donny inherited his grandfather's ability and his old fiddle and taught himself how to play. His message to the students was to never give up, even if no one else believes in what you can do. He said that although he continues to play the fiddle for a living, his greatest passion is to go into schools and explain to students the power of music, the gift of music that can take you to that next level of yourself. Then he played several fiddle tunes, and one of the Northern Spirit Singers, Felix, demonstrated how to dance the Red River Jig at the encouragement of the students chanting, 'Do it, do it.' After lunch, students broke off into separate groups to rotate through the day's planned activities. The Batoche National Historic Site is open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until July 2. On July 3, the hours change and are Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the site closing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These hours remain in effect until September 2, when they return to the Monday-Friday schedule. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
