Hundreds of Queen City residents celebrated National Aboriginal Day festivities at Victoria Park Tuesday with singing and dancing representing indigenous culture.
National Aboriginal Day dates back to 1996 when aboriginal groups traditionally celebrated their heritage on the summer solstice.
Now two decades later, First Nation elders said attitudes have dramatically changed.
“It’s a good feeling, you know, making noise,” elder Archie Weenie said.
Weenie also explained more education is needed for non-aboriginals.
“There’s lots you can learn about us. You’ve got to walk in our moccasins,” Weenie laughed.
READ MORE: Truth and Reconciliation report felt at National Aboriginal Day events across Canada
The day was a marker for indigenous people, celebrating the progress that’s been made but also the journey endured.
“Historically, we couldn’t vote. They called us savages and when we went to residential school, it was like we were inferior,” Norma-Jean Byrd, residential school survivor and elder, remembered.
“Now we’re being acknowledged.”
Mayor Michael Fougere also recognized the special day but noted there is still work that needs to be done.
“We realize that engaging First Nations in the workforce can sometimes be a challenge, to find the careers and help them, so that outreach continues all the time,” he said.
“You can always do better.”
Words that couldn’t ring truer as Regina North Central’s aboriginal population is also one of the most impoverished.
The Circle Project Association also put on a National Aboriginal Day community celebration at Grassick Playground.
“We wanted to make sure that we have a celebration where everybody can participate, doesn’t matter your financial status. Everything is free,” Circle Project program manager Natasha Wesaquate said.
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