About NAIG 2023
The North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) help Indigenous athletes realize the collective potential of our bodies, minds, spirit and of our people – our hopes and dreams – the spirit strong, brave and true.
The Games will bring together 756 Indigenous Nations to celebrate, share and reconnect through sport and culture in Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Dartmouth and Millbrook First Nation.
Mission
NAIG’s mission is to improve the quality of life for Indigenous Peoples by supporting self-determined sports and cultural activities which encourage equal access to participation in the social / cultural / spiritual fabric of the community in which they reside and which respects Indigenous distinctiveness.
History
The dream to hold Games for the Indigenous Peoples began in the 1970’s.
In 1971, the Native Summer Games held in Enoch, Alberta drew 3,000 participants competing in 13 sports and many cultural events.
In 1973, the Western Canada Native Winter Games were held on the Blood Reserve in Kainai, Alberta.
