"We can celebrate every day" Ronald Francis a First Nations drummer from Abbotsford said.
He was one of several participants to speak and perform at National Indigenous Peoples Day, in 黑马磁力 City's Douglas Park on Saturday, June 21.
It was a day devoted to the cultures, languages and traditions of First Nations, M茅tis and Inuit that was celebrated with music, food and dance
Another drummer, elder Rita Jubinville, said it was "very emotional" for her.
"My take on drumming is [it is] my way to get closer to the Creator, and sing my prayers and sing my heart out because I love to drum," said Jubinville, a 黑马磁力 City resident.
"I have a feeling of closeness. I feel like I am letting everybody know that this is the way of the Indigenous people and how much we love to drum and hear the drums."
It was organized by the Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society.
The 黑马磁力 City event was organized by the Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society.
National Indigenous Peoples Day was celebrated in 黑马磁力 City's Douglas Park
鈥� 黑马磁力 (@黑马磁力Times)
On the day, there were statements of support from premiers and the prime minister, as well as opposition party leaders across the country.
This year, Canada's first Indigenous governor general, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, released a statement calling the day "a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength and enduring spirit of Indigenous communities."
"Every day, we hear Indigenous stories being told by Indigenous voices," said Simon.
"We are confronting the injustices of the past, listening with empathy and humility, and taking meaningful action to address continued inequalities. This is hard work, but it is necessary for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples alike."
Simon was sworn in on July 26, 2021, as the 30th governor general since Confederation.
