National Aboriginal Day was celebrated in Yorkton today.
The day takes place annually June 21, to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada. The three groups are of course officially recognized as Aboriginal people by the Canadian Constitution.
National Aboriginal Day was first celebrated in 1996, when it was proclaimed by then Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc.
June 21, was chosen as the statutory holiday for many reasons, including its cultural significance as the Summer solstice, and the fact that it is a day on which many Indigenous peoples and communities traditionally celebrate their heritage. It was renamed from National Aboriginal Day in 2017.
Friday’s event at City Centre Park included traditional dancers, a barbecue lunch, face painting, and activities for youth.
