Why do we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day?
It was first celebrated in 1996, and is to recognize and honour First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures.
It’s a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of Canadas First People.
June 21st, was chosen due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year and the day many First Peoples celebrate their culture.
How to Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day?
- Identify and acknowledge the Native land you live on.
In Maple Ridge we live on the unceded territory of the Whonnock, Kwantlen and Katzie First Nation. What does unceded mean? It means First Nations people never ceded or legally signed away their lands to the Crown of Canada.
- Attend a celebration hosted by an Indigenous organization that honours Indigenous people and culture.
Last Saturday Fraser River Indigenous Society hosted an event at Memorial Peace Park that included art, culture, dancing and more.
To find out more about FRIS or to buy an orange shirt visit them at https://www.frisociety.ca/
Another way to celebrate today is to support Indigenous artist in your area.
Katzie artist Rain Pierre is a great local artist to support and learn more about. https://www.rainawakens.com/
We have a few items we have ready to ship in our shop. Please take a moment to check them out.
Maarsi
