EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers are set to host their highly anticipated Indigenous Celebration game on Wednesday, November 6, as they take on the Vegas Golden Knights at Rogers Place. This special event aims to honor and celebrate the rich culture, history, leadership, and talent of Indigenous Peoples and communities.
As part of the festivities, the Oilers will welcome a distinguished group of Indigenous elders, including International Chief Wilton Littlechild, Treaty Six First Nation Grand Chief Cody Thomas, Treaty Eight Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi, Inuit Elder Edna Elias, Andrea Sandmaier, President of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, and Dave Lamouche, President of the Métis Settlement General Council. Their presence will enhance the significance of the celebration and highlight the importance of Indigenous contributions to the community.
International Chief Wilton Littlechild expressed gratitude for the Edmonton Oilers’ ongoing partnership and commitment to fostering inclusivity within the sport of hockey. He stated, “I am grateful for OEG and the Edmonton Oilers continued partnership and dedication to making the game of hockey more inclusive and welcoming for Indigenous Peoples. Their efforts to highlight our culture through this annual celebration game is not only good for hockey, it helps foster greater understanding of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and makes our community more inclusive and welcoming for all.”
This year’s Indigenous Celebration game will feature a variety of events designed to engage fans and educate them about Indigenous culture. A pre-game ceremony will take place, recognizing Indigenous leaders from Northern Alberta, accompanied by performances from Indigenous drummers and dancers. Fans can also enjoy a performance by Métis fiddler Alex Kusturok, who will entertain on the Rogers Place concourse before the game and during the second intermission.
Adding to the cultural experience, Christina Hollingworth from the Enoch Cree Nation will perform the national anthem, O Canada, in Cree. Additionally, Enoch Cree Minor Hockey players will participate in the Rogers Skills Challenge during the first intermission, showcasing their talents and promoting youth engagement in sports.
Tim Shipton, Executive Vice President of OEG Sports & Entertainment, emphasized the importance of the Indigenous Celebration game in fostering understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture. He stated, “OEG Sports & Entertainment and the Oilers are honoured to once again host our Indigenous Celebration game. This game provides our fans with the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Indigenous Peoples while honoring the important Indigenous community and fan base right here in Oil Country. We value our long-standing relationship with the Indigenous community and are committed to deepening our understanding so we can continue to honor and set an example for inclusivity in the National Hockey League and our community.”
In addition to the cultural performances, the Oilers will recognize three Indigenous leaders in sports who have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond. These honorees include former University of Alberta and Canadian national team wrestler Taylor McPherson, Concordia University women’s volleyball Head Coach Kerrie Baird, and other notable figures who have made an impact in the world of sports.
The Indigenous Celebration game not only serves as a platform to celebrate Indigenous culture but also as an opportunity for the Edmonton Oilers to reflect on their role in promoting inclusivity within the sport. The event is a testament to the Oilers’ commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all fans, regardless of their background.
As the game approaches, excitement builds among fans and community members alike. The Indigenous Celebration game promises to be a memorable event that highlights the importance of Indigenous culture in the fabric of Canadian society and the sporting world.
Fans attending the game are encouraged to arrive early to participate in the pre-game festivities and experience the vibrant cultural performances that will take place. This initiative not only enriches the game-day experience but also strengthens the connection between the Oilers and the Indigenous community.
The Edmonton Oilers are proud to stand alongside Indigenous Peoples, celebrating their heritage and contributions while fostering a spirit of inclusivity and community engagement. The Indigenous Celebration game is a significant event on the Oilers’ calendar, and it reflects the team’s dedication to honoring the diverse cultures that make up the community.
