Volunteers with Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata help plant an Indigenous garden in downtown Winnipeg on Tuesday, June 7, 2016. (DOWNTOWN WINNIPEG BIZ / TWITTER)
WINNIPEG — Green thumbs were hard at work on Portage Avenue Tuesday as the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ planted its second annual Indigenous garden.
Garden beds have been planted in front of APTN and Air Canada Park showcasing Indigenous planting schemes and materials, based on community ideas and feedback.
“The aim of our second annual Indigenous Gardens on Portage Avenue is to build on our work towards ensuring downtown is inviting, welcoming, alluring and a visually attractive place that will leave tourists and visitors with a memorable and positive impression,” said Ari Driver, chair of the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Placemaking Committee.
“With 2016 proclaimed as the Year of Reconciliation by Mayor Brian Bowman, the Indigenous Gardens ensures that the diversity of Indigenous culture is reflected in the streetscaping of our downtown.”
The garden is to enhance the quality of life and increasing community experience, promote communication about Indigenous culture and improve the visual landscape of downtown.
Some of the plants include prairie sage, rudbeckia, blue lobella, sweetgrass, cedar and gaillardia.
Before the plants were put into the ground, they were blessed and a drumming and singing performance took place.
— Staff
