June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. On this day, Canadians honour the history, heritage, and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is an opportunity to recognize the continued strength of Indigenous communities and the contributions First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people have made in shaping Canada. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near the summer solstice.
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada. The RDOS encourages everyone to take time during this month to learn more about the history of the syilx people in the Okanagan Nation and all First Nations, Inuit, and Metis. The best way to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences is by learning directly from Indigenous voices. Here are three books written by Indigenous authors that provide important insights and information.
The RDOS is proud to be one of the event sponsors of the Pow Wow Between the Lakes, June 23-25, 2023, on the traditional lands of SnPink’tn (Penticton) at the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC). The event, which is organized by the Four Seasons Cultural Society, is intended to bring the bands of the Okanagan Nation Alliance together to celebrate syilx culture and resilience.
“The Regional District is committed to building respectful and collaborative relationships with Indigenous communities,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Board Chair. In addition to sponsoring the Pow Wow Between the Lakes, the RDOS is hosting an information booth during the event. Members of the RDOS Board of Directors and staff will be at SOEC throughout the weekend.
For further information about Pow Wow between the Lakes, please visit http://www.soec.ca/event/pow-wow-between-the-lakes/.