Regina marks National Indigenous Peoples Day with celebrations in the park

Hundreds of people gathered in Victoria Park to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Hundreds of people gathered in Victoria Park to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Festivities kicked off with a grand entry from the Cenotaph down to the stage at Pat Fiacco Plaza.

“As an Indigenous mother, educator and leader, I celebrate June 21 365 days a year,” Wendy Gervais, a representative from Metis Nation Saskatchewan, told the crowd during her opening remarks.

The cheerful dancing was followed by a moment of silence and honour song to pay tribute to all the children who did not make if home from residential schools as well as all survivors.

“As of March 2023, 10,028 unmarked graves have been identified across Turtle Island,” event speaker Zoey Roy told the crowd.

June 21 is a day to recognize, celebrate and learn about the diverse history, culture and accomplishments of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people. For many others, it is also a time to heal through song and dance.

“It gives us back a sense of identity and it gives us back our sense of self-worth just to be proud of who we are,” said Phyllis Littletent who is a part of the Kawacatoose Boys and Dancers.