The Office of the Treaty Commissioner is pleased to join those across the country in celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Every June 21, it is very important that Canadians take time to celebrate the heritage, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. It’s important to reflect on the history of our country, but also recognize that Indigenous cultures continue to flourish and these need to be celebrated. It’s also important to learn about the differences in our beautiful languages, worldviews, and beliefs.

For so many years the celebrations of Indigenous Peoples were not allowed, languages were not able to be spoken, powwows and dances banned, and histories were not shared. Having a day now starts to undo this harm, but protection for our languages, cultures, and communities needs to continue year-round.

There are so many exciting events happening around Saskatchewan to celebrate the day from a powwow in North Battleford and a flag raising in Nipawin, to events at Victoria Park in Saskatoon, and the afternoon of events in Regina. In Pinehouse there is the Pinehouse Elders Gathering, and the Lac La Ronge Indian Band celebrates the Woodland Cree Wellness Centre opening. We encourage you to find something near you and celebrate.