Regina Youth Lead Celebration of Indigenous Heritage
National Indigenous Peoples Day may officially fall on Saturday, but in Regina, celebrations began early. On Friday, crowds gathered to honour the rich cultures, traditions, and achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities—with youth at the heart of it all.
This year’s event placed a powerful focus on early cultural education, offering children an immersive experience in Indigenous art, history, and traditions long before they encounter these topics in formal classrooms.
Schools Bring Culture to Life for Kids
“It’s such an important day to be celebrating,” said Alana Ross, Minister of Parks, Culture, and Sport, as she toured the event. “Having children here from the schools, seeing them engage with art, history, and interactive games—it was just amazing.”
Dozens of school groups attended, with educators emphasizing how visibility and representation play a vital role in shaping inclusive learning environments. For Mother Teresa Middle School, where several staff members are Indigenous, the day was about much more than just observation—it was about belonging.
“Our students can see themselves in me,” said Evan Whitestar, an Indigenous advocate at the school. “That makes it easier for them to feel welcome and valued. Education has a difficult history in Canada, and events like this help bridge that gap.”
Music, Dance, and Hands-On History
The day included captivating cultural performances, such as a powwow dance led by the Buffalo Boys and other youth dancers from Mother Teresa Middle School, which brought movement, music, and meaning to the celebration.
Later, the children visited the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, where they tried their hand at bison hunting simulations, friendship bracelet-making, and atlatl throwing—learning Indigenous traditions through experience rather than textbooks.
Early Education, Lasting Impact
“The younger we expose kids to culture, the better off we’ll be as a society,” Ross added. “Seeing teachers make the effort to bring their students—knowing how much coordination that takes—it’s just wonderful.”
For many attendees, this event felt unlike any previous National Indigenous Peoples Day gathering in Regina. Some even described it as the city’s largest-ever youth turnout for an Indigenous celebration.
More to Come Across the Province
Although Friday’s event in Regina was a highlight, celebrations will continue across Saskatchewan on Saturday, offering more communities the chance to come together in honour of Indigenous culture and identity.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more on how culture, education, and youth continue to shape Canada’s shared future.
