October 31, 2012
Seventh Annual Manito Ahbee Festival to Celebrate Aboriginal Music, Art, Culture
– – –2012 International Event to Take Place Today to Sunday in Winnipeg
The seventh annual Manito Ahbee Festival is expected to draw thousands from across Canada and the United States to Winnipeg to celebrate Aboriginal culture over the next five days, as Manitoba builds its reputation as a global centre for traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art and music, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Flor Marcelino said today.
“Manito Ahbee is helping foster the exciting revival of pride in First Nation, Métis and Inuit culture taking place in Canada today, and I’m proud that Manitoba is at the centre of this renaissance,” said Marcelino. “This event is one of the largest of its kind in North America and serves as a testament to the incredible talent and artistic ability of the indigenous community, not only in Manitoba, but throughout the Americas.”
From hoop dances to hip hop, the Manito Ahbee Festival brings people together to highlight different forms of Aboriginal culture throughout the gathering. The name Manito Ahbee comes from a sacred site in Whiteshell Provincial Park where traditional teachings and wisdom have long been shared.
The provincial government has supported the festival since its inception and provides ongoing support.
“The festival enables everyone from all cultural backgrounds to see first-hand the diversity of Aboriginal identity and talent in Canada and beyond,” Marcelino said. “We are proud to be able to support an event that has proven to have an important role in helping cultivate and launch so many outstanding Aboriginal artists and performers.”
This year’s festival will include a youth education conference, indigenous marketplace and trade show, international competition powwow and the renowned Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards.
A full calendar of events is available at www.manitoahbee.com.
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