David Burt, the Premier has highlighted the importance of Bermuda’s ties to indigenous tribes along the US East Coast.

Mr Burt was speaking at the biannual powwow hosted by the St David's Islanders and Native Community last weekend.

He was joined by Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, St David’s MP Lovita Foggo and Mischa Fubler, the culture junior minister.

The two-day event — Celebrating Community, Culture and Connection — brought together more than 75 invited guests from indigenous tribes along the US East Coast and marked the largest international showing in the event's history.

Mr Burt said: "Keeping the connection alive to our native East Coast relatives is important because it recognises a part of our history that has often been left out. These links should not be forgotten."

Mr Burt thanked Terlena Murphy, chairman of the St David's Islanders and Native Community, for her continued leadership.

He also recognised the contributions of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, representatives of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the Wicozani Wampanoag Singers and Dancers, and the Warwick Gombeys.