Join respected community Elders Kate Dickson and Shannon Thunderbird for an afternoon of discovery, storytelling and teachings from the First Peoples. Take part in the drum, learn a traditional craft, experience dance and reflect on the teachings woven through stories and song.

Kate and Shannon have created the afternoon as a welcoming drop-in experience from 1pm- 4pm, with traditional dance, craft activities, storytelling and interactive drumming. Craft supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

All are welcome to come together, learn, reflect and connect with community during this special afternoon in BPAC’s Family Lobby.

The team from the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF) will also be on site, offering an opportunity to learn more about their important work building cultural understanding and creating a path toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. BPAC has proudly supported DWF since its first year and continues its commitment as a supporter and ambassador.

KATE DICKSON

Coast Ts’msyen First Nations. Tribal Affiliation: Band: Lax Kw’alaams Northern British Columbia, Royal House of Niis’gumiik. Clan: Gispudwawda (Orca/Blackfish).

Kate is a dynamic Speaker on Indigenous culture (including Truth and Reconciliation, justice issues), singer, drummer, storyteller, writer, workshop facilitator. She was among the first educators in Ontario to teach a full semester of Indigenous Studies for many years at the high school level. Kate is a member of the Indigenous Advisory Circle to the Mayor of Burlington since 2025.

SHANNON THUNDERBIRD

Shannon Thunderbird, BA (Hon), M.A. Coast Ts’msyen First Nations. Tribal Affiliation: Band: Lax Kw’alaams Northern British Columbia, Royal House of Niis’gumiik. Clan: Gispwudwada (Orca).

Founder of Teya Peya Productions that offers Indigenous-based educational/ entertainment programs that brings people from all cultural, social and economic backgrounds together in a spirit of truth and reconciliation, sharing and inclusiveness. Shannon is a celebrated International Speaker/Workshop Facilitator on Indigenous, culture, history, spirituality, Singer-Songwriter, Recording Artist, Author, and Playwright.