July 16, 2026
Today, the City of Edmonton welcomed community members to kihcihkaw askî for Connect with Our Roots, an Indigenous-led gathering focused on learning, connection and caring for the land.
Originally planned to mark the beginning of National Indigenous History Month in June, the event was rescheduled due to severe weather. Despite the delay, the event celebrated the rich histories, cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
“Connect with Our Roots is a powerful way to celebrate and carry forward the meaning of National Indigenous History Month by bringing people together through ceremony, planting, storytelling and shared learning,” said Kyrstin Flierl, Director, Indigenous Relations. “It invites Edmontonians to connect with the land, honour the histories and knowledge of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and reflect on the relationships and responsibilities we carry forward together.”
Hosted by the City’s Indigenous Relations Office and Root for Trees program, Connect with Our Roots brought together residents, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and community partners for land stewardship, Indigenous-led entertainment and knowledge-sharing activities. Participants planted native trees, shrubs and wildflowers while learning about Indigenous relationships with the land and the role of traditional knowledge in caring for urban natural spaces.
"Root for Trees was honoured to invite participants to plant trees, shrubs and wildflowers indigenous to this land," said Lindsay Vander Hoek, Program Liaison, Root for Trees. "Creating connection with the land is so important in the journey of reconciliation. When someone has the opportunity to plant a tree and touch the soil, it inspires a sense of care for that tree. That care then extends to people and place, contributing to a shared future."
As a space dedicated to Indigenous ceremony, cultural practices and land-based learning, kihcihkaw askî provided a meaningful setting for participants to learn about the history of this territory, build relationships and consider how they can help care for the land.
Connect with Our Roots supports the City’s commitment to reconciliation by creating opportunities for the community to learn from Indigenous knowledge, strengthen relationships and take part in land stewardship.
