FORT ST. JOHN -- Today is National Indigenous People's Day, a chance to recognize and celebrate the cultures and contributions of First Nations people in Canada.
Several big events have been planned across the Peace Region today with Northern Lights College hosting community gatherings in both Dawson Creek and Fort St. John.
The college hosted a celebration with speakers, drumming, Indigenous games, and elder stories.
The events in Dawson Creek were put on in partnership with the Nawican Friendship Centre.
The Tse'k'wa Heritage Society also hosting an event at the historic site in Charlie Lake with a performance by the Doig River Drummers.
The Doig River providing a statement educating their social media audience on the history of Indigenous people in Canada.
“During precolonial times, Indigenous people had their own cultures, languages, systems of laws, government, social organizations, languages, economies, and territories,” said the Doig River in a Facebook post.
“Our land falls under Treaty 8, which included promises made to Indigenous people living in northeastern British Columbia.”
Provincially, Chief Marilyn Slett with the Union of BC Indian Chiefs said in a statement that First Nations must continue pushing for the full implementation of BC's law, adopting the United Nations declaration on the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Federally, Prime Minister Justin Trueau marked the day in Cape Breton at a celebration of Indigenous storytelling.
Canada Post also has issued three new stamps honouring Inuit, First Nations, and Metis leaders.
