President Steenkamp: Join us to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month!

Today marks the beginning of National Indigenous Peoples’ Month, a time that invites us to come together to celebrate the diverse knowledge systems, cultures, music, arts and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples from coast to coast to coast.  

Each year, the Royal Roads University community joins partners from across the region for what many consider a highlight of the year. As National Indigenous Peoples Day falls on a weekend this year, a special celebration will take place starting at 10 a.m. Friday, June 19 on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations at Royal Roads’ Colwood campus. 

This event is open to everyone – students, staff, faculty and the public as well. We also expect hundreds of students from across Greater Victoria school districts to once again join us for this incredible event. Expect a canoe landing protocol practice, canoe challenges, live performances, cultural presentations, Indigenous vendors, food and more. 

I always feel a warmth that comes from gathering in community in this way, not only because the summer sun often arrives right on cue with the solstice, but also because of the spirit of connection, celebration and shared learning that defines the occasion.  

In this celebratory video, I joined Indigenous Cultural Liaison Diane Sam and partners from across the region to reflect on this annual gathering and the many things that make it so meaningful, from the fry bread and friendships to the opportunity to celebrate alongside Elders, family and community. 

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Month!