In 2009, the House of Commons designated June to Indigenous history and encouraged Canadians to learn about the culture, contributions, sacrifices and resilience of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people. Each of the three groups have intricate traditions and practices, and a history and relationship with Canada.
Until recently, much of Indigenous history was not widely acknowledged, and many Canadians are still learning about the impact of residential schools, the ongoing effects of the Indian Act and the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the foundation of Canada’s creation.
There are four weekly themes that officials and educators are encouraging people to learn more about this year, including environment, traditional knowledge and territory, children and youth, language, culture and arts and women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
The best way to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures is to engage with Indigenous-led media and participate in local events and celebrations. Here are a few throughout Kamloops (Tk’emlúps).
Redefining the Perspective exhibition at the Kamloops Arts Council
From June 1 to June 24, visit the Courthouse Galleries at the Kamloops Arts Council for a group exhibition celebrating regional Indigenous artists.
The Indigenous Resurgence Project showcases artists from any experience level, in any discipline, emphasizing the region’s diversity of crafts. The exhibition focuses on breaking down stereotypes and preconceptions by redefining what it means to be an Indigenous artist.
The exhibition is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will also be an opening reception on Saturday, June 1 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., with light refreshments and snacks.
For more information about the collective and the exhibition, check out the Q&A The Wren did last week.
Second Annual Komasket Powwow
Join the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) in celebrating their second annual Komasket Powwow from June 7 to June 9, 2024. The event is located at Komasket Park outside of Vernon, 11 kilometres from the Westsyde Road turnoff. Enjoy a local cultural experience by watching talented dancing and browsing art and products from local vendors. Overnight camping is available for $20, and admission to the event is free.
For questions or inquiries about the event, please email komasketpowwow@gmail.com.
National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21
Every year on June 21, people come together to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. Festivities include drumming, dancing, storytelling, song sharing and games. Two events will celebrate Indigenous Peoples day in Kamloops.
One event, hosted by KFS and LMO, will take place at Riverside Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to attend. Attendees can anticipate live performances by drummers, jiggers and local artist Joel West. Several community organization booths will be set up with interactive games, food and beverage options and a bannock contest.
The second event, hosted by Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc, will take place at the Kamloopa Powwow Arbour from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and feature drummers, dancers and artisan vendors. End the night with a mesmerizing aerial light show at the CLC soccer field just above the arbour.
2 Rivers Remix Society’s moveable feast at the historic Hat Creek Ranch
2 Rivers Remix Society (2RMX) is hosting a free moveable music feast at the historic Hat Creek ranch outside St’uxwtews (Cache Creek). 2RMX encourages everyone to attend and watch Indigenous musicians and bands perform throughout the day. The music festival will run from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 22.
For more information, follow their Virtual Feast page and watch for the musician lineup.
43rd Annual Kamloopa Powwow
The Kamloopa Powwow is historically one of the largest powwow gatherings in western North America, seeing over 500 registered dancers from across Canada and the US and up to 20,000 attendees over the weekend.
This year, the powwow will take place June 28 through June 30 at the Kamloopa Powwow Arbour. Grand entry will happen at 7 p.m. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Saturday. Admission to the event is $10 a day or $20 for a weekend pass.
Kamloopa Indian Days
The Indian Days in Kamloops are an important piece of Indigenous history in the area, with public records going all the way back to the late 1960s. In partnership with the B.C. Bullriders of Canada Inc. and the Elite Indian Relay Association, the Kamloopa Powwow Society is set to bring some exciting events to the Kamloops Race Central this year. The event will run June 28 and June 29. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the Horse Barn for $40 a day.
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