In recent years, the crowds for National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in Nanaimo have grown to roughly 4,000. (National Indigenous Peoples Day-Nanaimo/Facebook)

By Spencer Sterritt

Indigenous celebration

Celebration of Indigenous culture in Nanaimo more than a fun day in the sun

Jun 21, 2019 | 12:42 AM

NANAIMO — A massive celebration of Indigenous culture and history in Nanaimo shows how committed the City is to working towards reconciliation.

Over the last six years, Chris Beaton with the Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre said he’s seen the crowds swell to roughly 4,000 for National Indigenous People’s Day celebrations in Nanaimo. He said it’s also fairly split between Indigenous and non-Indigenous crowds.

“The broader community has seen the importance of the day (and) they’re coming out together. Building relationships, learning a little bit about each other and sharing some time together, which I think is a really important thing for this city.”

Maffeo Sutton Park, on the traditional waterfront territory of Snuneymuxw First Nation, will be packed on Friday, June 21 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Indigenous singers will entertain the crowds while children enjoy crafts and art. There is also a salmon BBQ and freshly made bannock.

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Beaton said June 21 is a very powerful day and more than a chance to enjoy the sun and games.

“This country is on a path of reconciliation,” he said. “It’s one we’re not sure how long it will take to travel, but it can’t happen without building relationships between us all.”

Beaton said to ensure everyone stays on path and works towards a future of equality, the lessons and experiences taken from National Indigenous People’s Day need to be incorporated and embed into our daily lives.

“That’s going to get us to where we want to be in the conversation of reconciliation, not a 24-hour period in a given year.”

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit