A new playroom designed to celebrate Indigenous culture, learning and connection will officially open this week at the Cobourg EarlyON Child and Family Centre.
The grand opening will take place Friday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the centre on Division Street.
The project was created through a partnership involving Northumberland County, EarlyON Child and Family Centres, Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services, and the Indigenous Early Years team.
Organizers say the playroom is intended to promote cultural awareness while creating opportunities for Indigenous children, youth and families to connect with culture, community and programming in a welcoming environment.
The grand opening coincides with National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations and will feature a variety of cultural activities and community programming.
The event will begin with opening songs and drumming, followed by remarks from Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander and a naming ceremony featuring cultural teachings. Attendees will also hear from Tim Smoke, Cultural Resource Advisor with Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services.
Visitors will have an opportunity to tour the new playroom and learn more about the space and its role in supporting Indigenous families in Northumberland.
The celebration will conclude with lunch and a community gathering.
Organizers say the project reflects a collaborative effort to create inclusive spaces that honour Indigenous cultures, traditions and teachings while strengthening connections within the community.
The event is open to invited guests, community partners and media.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
