VIDEO: Ceremony to celebrate 'strong bond' between Garden River, Sault Ste. Marie

Garden River First Nation has completed its Cultural Competency Project it says is strengthening collaborative efforts and understanding with local partners in Sault Ste. Marie.

The project was made possible through a Community Support, Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Initiative funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage.

According to a news release, a set of cultural workshops were delivered for both Garden River First Nation and Sault Ste. Marie staff and leadership.

The First Nation is also planning an upcoming wampum belt ceremony, scheduled for Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Garden River Community Centre. It will feature the exchange of a wampum belt and gifts between Chief Karen Bell and Mayor Matthew Shoemaker, symbolizing the strong bond and mutual respect between the communities, the release says.

The event will be attended by staff and leadership from both Garden River First Nation and Sault Ste. Marie, as well as people from both communities.

"The ceremony will be capped off with a feast, celebrating the enduring partnership and collaborative spirit that has flourished through our shared efforts," the news release states. "We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported and participated in these groundbreaking events. Your involvement has been instrumental in fostering a growing relationship with Sault Ste. Marie and advancing our collective goals."