The City of Prince Albert, in partnership with the Prince Albert Indian and Métis Friendship Centre (PAIMFC), has announced a historic signing ceremony to formally recognize the development of Ceremonial and Cultural Grounds at the Upper Plains of Little Red River Park,
Friendship Centre Youth Services Director Shane Bird said the Upper Plains at Little Red River Park hold deep cultural significance for many Indigenous peoples. He said this agreement shows the Friendship Centre and City of Prince Albert are standing together in unity.
“This ground breaking project is one of the first of its kind in Saskatchewan,” Bird said in a press release. “These grounds will support urban Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth to connect with traditional culture and ceremony, which is important to support a sense of belonging and connectedness for many years to come.”
In April 2024, PAIMFC approached the City with a vision to reclaim and revitalize the space as a site for traditional ceremonies, cultural gatherings and youth engagement. Their goal is to use the site for traditional ceremonies, cultural gatherings, and youth engagement.
Prince Albert Mayor Bill Powalinski said the ceremonial grounds will serve as a gathering place for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth to connect with traditional teachings, ceremonies and land-based cultural practices fostering belonging, connection, and healing.
“This is a meaningful step forward in our journey of reconciliation,” Powalinsky said in a press release. “We are honoured to support a project that reflects shared values of respect, recognition, and a commitment to working together in a good way.”
In a press release, the city said the initiative is aligned with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to action to renew or establish Treaty relationships based on mutual recognition, respect, shared responsibility and to support youth programs that advance reconciliation through community-based initiatives.
The public signing ceremony will take place on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 1-3 p.m.
