National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
It's a time to learn about and acknowledge the history, resilience, and diversity of Indigenous peoples across the country. National Indigenous Peoples Day is on Saturday, June 21. Ahead of that, the Swan Valley School Division will be hosting a day full of events at Legion Park.
Lorna Munro works with the school division.
"It's a part of our truth and reconciliation goals that we try and support Indigenous education and history," said Munro. "One of our goals is hosting an event on National Indigenous Peoples Day."
The event begins at 11 on Tuesday morning with greetings. The Kingfisher Clan takes the main stage at noon and 2:00 p.m.
"We also have our very own local performers. We will have the grade seven and eight students from Benito, they're the Benito Strings," offered Munro. "The jazz band from the Swan Valley Regional Secondary School will also be performing. It's going to be a great day."
Munro, who has been working within the division for nearly two decades, says they look forward to celebrating this day every year. It's near and dear to her heart and as she says, the students always do a fantastic job of getting on board.
"I think they're looking forward to seeing different styles of dance that will be showcased on the main stage," ended Munro. "They're also looking forward to the bannock station. The kids always enjoy that."
The closing prayer is scheduled to begin at 3:00.
In Dauphin, the Northwest Métis Council will hold their celebrations on Friday beginning at 11:00. That day will include square dancers, a free hotdog lunch, outdoor games, and Saulteaux bingo, to name a few. There will be more celebrations on Friday night from 6:00 to 9:00 at the Roblin Curling Arena.
