Hundreds gather at Old Port for Great Peace anniversary

Hundreds gathered at the Old Port on Sunday to mark National Indigenous Peoples' Day and commemorate the 325th anniversary of the Great Peace of Montreal, a landmark 1701 agreement that shaped relations between Indigenous nations and French settlers in North America.

The ceremony brought together Mohawk Elders, dignitaries, and the public at the summer solstice. Traditional drumming echoed across the waterfront as a ceremonial fire received offerings of tobacco and speakers reflected on the significance of the treaty, which united dozens of Indigenous nations and French representatives in a commitment to peace and diplomacy.

Following the ceremony, dancers, dignitaries and attendees took part in a festive procession to Place Royale, where activities continued as part of the Pointe-à-Callière Neighbourhood Festival. The celebration featured a powwow dance led by Aroussen Gros-Louis, a musical storytelling performance by Jocelyn Sioui, and music from DJ Poptrt of the Mohawk Nation of Kahnawá.

Visitors had the chance to view one of the event's most significant historical artifacts: the original Great Peace of Montreal treaty, presented at Pointe-à-Callière. The document is the only known surviving copy of the agreement signed more than three centuries ago at the site where the museum now stands. The city is planning a series of commemorative activities throughout the summer to honor the 325th anniversary.