National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 marks the annual recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day—an official day in Canada to honour the contributions and celebrate the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. The 21st also marks summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and symbolizes a season of renewal.
On this day, Capilano University renews its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and efforts to Indigenize and decolonize education and the campuses and learning locations on whose unceded territories the University is located.
Words from Elder Latash Nahanee
We are especially grateful to the Elders-in-Residence and Indigenous Cultural Knowledge Keepers at CapU. Their presence and teachings enrich the lives of everyone at the University as they deepen our understanding of Indigenous history, culture and perspectives.
In honour of this day, we share these words from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw and CapU Elder Latash Nahanee:
“Today is a day of celebration and remembrance. Our ancestors lived here for thousands of years. They developed rich, diverse and vibrant cultures all across this land called North America. In recent decades, we have witnessed a resurgence of many languages and cultures. In song, dance and storytelling Indigenous people are telling their story. The main constant in life is change. We are all ever evolving and meeting the challenges of today with support of wisdom from our past. With courage and resilience, we will meet our destiny.”
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw and CapU Elder Latash Nahanee's Book Pick
Legends of the Capilano updates E. Pauline Johnson’s 1911 classic Legends of Vancouver, restoring Johnson’s intended title for the first time. This new edition celebrates the storytelling abilities of Johnson’s Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) collaborators, Joe and Mary Capilano, and supplements the original 15 legends with five additional stories narrated solely or in part by Mary Capilano, highlighting her previously overlooked contributions to the book. This edition reframes, reconnects and reclaims the stewardship of these stories.
Everyone welcome: Connect and learn at event around the city
The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre is hosting Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations. Beginning with a pancake breakfast and friendship walk at the Friendship Centre, festivities will continue with entertainment and vendors at Grandview Park from noon–5 p.m.
Other events hosted around the city:
- The City of West Vancouver
- The City of Burnaby
- The City of New Westminster
- The City of Surrey
- Celebrate Canada—List of Events
Read more: Capsule—Indigenous
Capsule—Indigenous is a collection of stories that recognizes the contributions and celebrates the work of Indigenous students and employees at CapU. Latest stories:
- Opening doors to cultural perspectives
- Indigenizing the future of film
- What makes a good warrior
- Breaking the chains that bind us
Also in CapU News:
- Capilano University launches Assistant Director program for Indigenous filmmakers
- When a costume isn’t a costume
Watch: Bones of Crows (2022)
Playing now—limited release
Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas
Bones of Crows is the largest production on the residential school experience, written directed and produced by Dene/Métis writer-producer Marie Clements. “It is the first time we will be able to see ourselves—our grandmothers and grandfathers, our parents, aunties and uncles, over a span of 100 years while also being modern in the time that they were alive,” said Marie Clements.
Submitted by: Communications