On June 21st, Canadians across the country will come together to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. This day is an opportunity to recognize and honor the diverse cultures, languages, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
In Calgary, the celebrations will be held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The theme for this year’s event is “Resilience and Reconciliation,” highlighting the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities and the importance of reconciliation.
The day will kick off with a virtual sunrise ceremony, followed by a series of online events and activities throughout the day. These include traditional drumming and dancing, storytelling, and workshops on Indigenous art, language, and culture.
One of the highlights of the day will be a virtual roundtable discussion featuring Indigenous leaders and community members. The discussion will focus on the progress made in reconciliation efforts and the work that still needs to be done.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi will also be participating in the celebrations, delivering a special message to the Indigenous community in Calgary. He will be joined by other city officials and representatives from various Indigenous organizations.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is an important reminder of the ongoing struggles and injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is also a time to celebrate their rich and vibrant cultures and to recognize the important contributions they have made and continue to make to our country.
As we celebrate this day, it is crucial to remember that reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires the commitment and participation of all Canadians. We must continue to educate ourselves and take action towards building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
To learn more about the virtual events and activities happening in Calgary on National Indigenous Peoples Day, visit the City of Calgary’s website or follow the hashtag #NIPDCalgary on social media. Let us all come together to honor and celebrate the resilience and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada.