June was a time of learning, celebration, and reflection, as Burgundy proudly hosted a series of events to honor National Indigenous History (NIH) Month, inviting everyone at Ekati to immerse themselves in the diverse, vibrant cultures, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Burgundy recognizes the traditional land use of our Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) partners: the Tłı̨chǫ, Yellowknives Dene First Nation, and Łutsel K’e Dene First Nation, North Slave Métis Alliance, and the Hamlet of Kugluktuk & Kitikmeot Inuit Association.
“The company’s commitment to value and respect the diversity and inclusion of all Indigenous peoples by incorporating traditional knowledge and Indigenous history awareness into everyday life at Ekati, has always been something I feel proud about,” said Keith Sangris.
Site Services Superintendent, who’s worked at the mine for 25 years. Throughout the month, a variety of traditional meals were served at Ekati and Misery camps, providing a taste of Indigenous cuisine and offering opportunities for cultural exchanges and appreciation.
The culinary celebrations culminated on June 20th, as everyone celebrated National Indigenous Peoples Day with a feast that included pan-fried pickerel, Three Sisters Stew, and elk pie, with every dish conveying a story of heritage and tradition.
Following dinner, open invitations were extended to anyone wishing to attend or participate in The Dene Hand Games. These traditional games have been played for generations, and provide a space for learning, engagement, and mutual respect among friends.
Dene drummers, Wilfred Crapeau, Benjamin Hardisty, Sizeh Sangris, and Jonathon Lafferty, created powerful rhythms and brought Indigenous music to life for everyone attending as they led the games alongside other employees and site guests, who participated in and thoroughly enjoyed this immersive cultural experience.
Yellowknives Dene First Nations member Fraser Goulet, who works as a haul truck operator at Ekati, shared this explanation.
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