YORKTON - National Indigenous Peoples Day was marked in Yorkton June 21, with a large gathering hosted by the Yorkton Tribal Council.
“This today, and every day is the start of the truth being told,” said Tribal Chief Isabel O’Soup, adding that the truth has not been shared enough. “. . . A lot of people don’t know the history of First Nations.”
O’Soup said bringing the truth out is a major element of truth and reconciliation efforts, suggesting that it really means the truth.
“The truth needs to come out, needs to start being taught in schools,” she said.
In that regard O’Soup said the day is also about honouring ancestors and at the same time building toward the future. She added things are getting better.
“There are things we can talk about today my grandmother couldn’t talk about when she was a little girl,” said O’Soup.
By coming together at events like the one Thursday, O’Soup said they continue to build positive change by “helping celebrate the people we are today.”
Yorkton Mayor Mitch Hippsley picked up on the theme of building together.
“We are living in paradise. We have so much to be thankful for,” he said.
But, Hippsley also acknowledged that there is work to be done in terms of truth and reconciliation calling it a journey and that it “will be a long journey,” but that he felt we are on the right path.
“We are all in this together . . . We are all treaty people,” he said.
In a release the province also focused on a chance for education.
"National Indigenous Peoples Day is a valuable opportunity for people to reflect on our history and learn about the Indigenous peoples that call this land home," Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Don McMorris said in a release Wednesday. "Today allows us to show recognition and respect for the role Indigenous Peoples have played and continue to play in shaping Canada as we continue on our path of reconciliation."
Saskatchewan is home to more than 175,000 First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.
The release noted the province is committed to working with Indigenous partners to advance reconciliation and support economic, social and cultural initiatives for all residents. In the 2023-24 budget, approximately $249.1 million in targeted funding was provided for First Nation and Métis communities and organizations, representing an increase of more than 6.8 per cent from the previous year.
The annual budget includes two grants for First Nation and Métis communities, community organizations and non-profit organizations. These grants support community-led initiatives promoting reconciliation and cultural understanding, safe communities, strong families, student achievement and economic growth.
