Spirits were high and festivities continued despite heavy rain during the Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre’s (LNFC) National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) event.
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The downpour in the Border City forced the day-long celebration indoors at the friendship centre. Executive director Deborah Munroe explained the event is a vital opportunity to showcase Indigenous culture.
“We’re hosting our National Indigenous Peoples Day event, which is a day for Indigenous people to host their talents and traditions,” she said. “It’s important for us to showcase our culture based on our lived experience.
“It’s important for us. It’s a day to be proud of who we are, a celebration of who we are.”
The day kicked off at noon with a free community lunch, which was quickly moved inside as the weather thwarted outdoor plans.
“Our day starts with a free lunch to the community and then our program (began) at 1 p.m.,” Munroe said.
Attendees packed the LNFC community hall, getting an up-close view of the grand entry.
“We have powwow dancers, drummers and singers,” Munroe said.
An artisan market featuring local vendors welcomed visitors at the building’s entrance and the day wrapped up with a complimentary roast beef dinner.
Munroe noted the event received strong backing from local businesses.
“We’ve asked businesses within the community if they would like to donate a door prize and they have showed up,” she said, noting Real Canadian Superstore donated an outdoor patio heater.
She also recognized major sponsors, including Celebrate Canada, TC Energy and Cenovus Energy.
“We couldn’t put on this event without them.”
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