Indigenous culture in the spotlight at North American Indigenous Games in Halifax

As thousands of people from across the continent arrive in Nova Scotia for the North American Indigenous Games, the spotlight won't only be on athletic competition but also Indigenous culture.

NAIG 2023 president George (Tex) Marshall of Eskasoni said the chance for the Mi'kmaq to share their language, ceremony, traditions and culture with the world is as important as the competitions.

"We've basically set the standard that our goal is 50 per cent culture, 50 per cent Games and we stay true to that," said Marshall, who's been dreaming of hosting the games in Halifax for over two decades.

"It's an incredible opportunity for culture shared throughout the tribes of North America."

This will be the first time the Games have been held in Atlantic Canada. Marshall said it's a chance for the Mi'kmaq to share their story with other Indigenous groups.

Language will also be a key part of the cultural exchange, Marshall said. There are more than 460 signs set up in three languages: English, French and Mi'kmaw.

Many nations will be coming with their own language, he said. Others have lost their language and NAIG could be a "reawakening" for them.

"It might be the catalyst for change," Marshall said.

Kjipuktuk is ready for you, Turtle Island! <br><br>A special thank you to Elder Billy Joe for teaching our Culture Chair the traditional way for making the Mi'kmaq Wikuoms (Wigwams). <a href="https://t.co/Y35khRHDyS">pic.twitter.com/Y35khRHDyS</a>

The NAIG cultural village in the Halifax Common will have cultural demonstrations, a marketplace and performances from Saturday until July 22. 

Events being held there include demonstrations of traditional cooking from chef Ray Bear and traditional medicine from Tuma Young, a lawyer,