National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed on Saturday, June 21.
It's a time to learn about and acknowledge the history, resilience, and diversity of Indigenous peoples across the country. In the Parkland, many communities have been holding events. The Swan Valley School Division held an event at Legion Park earlier this week. Ebb & Flow First Nation held their festivities on Thursday.
In Dauphin, the Northwest Métis Council has partnered with the Dauphin Friendship Centre to host an event on Friday, beginning at 11:00 at the Friendship Centre.
Jarri Thompson spoke to the importance of this day.
"It means a lot. Especially given that we are working through Truth and Reconciliation," said Thompson. "It's a day to highlight who we are, where we have been. It's a chance to celebrate our culture and community."
Frances Chartrand is the vice-president of the Manitoba Métis Federation and says this is a day for everyone to come together.
"We are proud people of the Red River Métis Nation," said Chartrand. "It's a great honour to share our culture, music, and dance not only with our Red River Métis citizens, but those in all walks of life. We live in the City of Sunshine. It's going to be a beautiful day for us to share our culture with citizens in all walks of life."
An opening ceremony sets the stage for the day at 11 in the back hall. The DFC Diversity Dancers will then perform, and there will be a vocal performance.
"Then we'll be moving to a free community lunch from 12 to 2," ended Thompson. "From 11 to 4, we're going to have games in the greenspace for our youth. A bouncy castle, kid-friendly axe-throwing, and a kid-friendly moose hunt. We will also have the Cameron Campbell Band and other live entertainment."
Around the Parkland, Winnipegosis will be holding celebrations from 1 to 8 at the Winnipegosis Youth Centre on Friday. Roblin is hosting a celebration from 6 to 9 on Friday night at the Roblin Curling Arena, while Minitonas will hold celebrations on Saturday from 11 to 4 at 275 Main Street.
