Surrey Schools recognizes 30th annual National Indigenous Peoples Day with Semiahmoo First Nation
This Sunday is National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrating the heritage, diversity, culture and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada.
The 30th annual day of recognition is an opportunity to show admiration and respect for Indigenous Peoples nationwide and to share culture, history, spirit and experiences with each other and the community.
For Surrey and White Rock, this year’s National Indigenous Peoples Day event is taking place on Friday, June 19, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Semiahmoo Park (15782 Marine Dr., White Rock), presented by the Semiahmoo First Nation in partnership with FRAFCA (Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association). The event is free to attend and open to the public.
“It’s an opportunity for people to share who they are,” said Lyn Daniels, Director of Instruction of Indigenous Learning. “Everyone is sharing authentic activities that people can be engaged in to have a better understanding of who we are.”
The day will feature cultural sharing, live music, an Indigenous fashion show, an Indigenous marketplace and kids’ activities. Indigenous Learning staff will also host a Surrey Schools tent, presenting unique opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture.
“We’re going to be sharing some teachings about cedar and people will have a chance to weave cedar,” said Daniels. “We’re going to highlight some fun aspects of Métis culture, we’re hoping to teach people some Métis dancing.”
In a statement, the Semiahmoo First Nation expressed how deeply meaningful it is to host this year’s event, celebrating the roots and identity of Indigenous people in Surrey and White Rock.
“As we take on the responsibility of hosting, we do so with a renewed vision grounded in our cultural teachings and a commitment to creating a lasting and inclusive experience for all who attend,” reads the statement. “We see this as a continuation of the strong relationships that have been built, and we would be honoured to carry this work forward together.”
Additionally, TransLink is providing a free shuttle between the event and King George SkyTrain Station, with details below:
- First Bus: 2 p.m., departing King George SkyTrain Station (Handy Dart stop #60235, in front of Tim Hortons)
- Last Bus: 9 p.m., departing Semiahmoo Park (15782 Marine Dr., White Rock, at Kent Street by the sign reading “Special”)
For more information about this year’s National Indigenous Peoples Day event, click here
