SASKATOON — SGI CANADA and Wanuskewin Heritage Park have announced a new, one-year partnership. The agreement will invest $31,000 to help fund learning experiences at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park, including exhibits, presentations, tours and demonstrations to help advance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the cultures of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples.
“This partnership will help support many immersive and educational experiences at the park,” said Felix Thomas, board chair of Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
“The opportunity to enhance our facilities and experiences is welcome as we pursue our designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.”
Through the partnership, SGI CANADA is covering admission and parking so visitors to Wanuskewin Heritage Park will be able to attend for free every Sunday this August. SGI CANADA’s hope is that covering those costs will make it possible for more people to visit the park and learn about Indigenous Peoples’ relationship to the land, moving toward greater understanding, healing and reconciliation, according to a press release.
Guests are welcome to donate to the park, as Wanuskewin is a nonprofit organization, and registered charity.
“SGI CANADA has a deep commitment to the Calls to Action that arose out of the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission,” said Penny McCune, president and CEO of SGI CANADA.
“This partnership is another way we can help staff, customers and the people of Saskatchewan build greater cultural awareness and understanding so that we can walk together down the path of reconciliation.”
Visitors to Wanuskewin can explore exciting indoor exhibits, beautiful walking trails showcasing archeological points of interest, a children’s playground, a restaurant featuring local cuisine and an Indigenous-led and curated gift shop supporting established and emerging Indigenous artists. The park also offers the opportunity to see Wanuskewin’s repatriated bison herd.
About Wanuskewin
Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a multi-award-winning Northern Plains Indigenous Cultural Heritage Site located on the northeast outskirts of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Wanuskewin features exhibits, displays, films and cultural tours all showcasing the significance of the land where Nations have gathered for more than 6,400 years.