In celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Sheep River Library is inviting the community to join a vibrant and family-friendly event that honors the rich histories, cultures, and traditions of Indigenous peoples in Canada. In 1996, then Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc proclaimed that the holiday be celebrated on June 21st. This date was chosen as the statutory holiday for many reasons, including its cultural significance as the Summer solstice, and the fact that it is a day on which many Indigenous peoples and communities already traditionally celebrated their heritage. A proposal to rename the day National Indigenous Peoples Day was accepted in 2017.
National Indigenous Peoples Day recognizes and celebrates the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Indigenous peoples of Canada. Our celebration will be held at the Sheep River Library and the Flare ‘n Derrick Community Hall. This event is a heartfelt celebration of community, reconciliation, and cultural connection. The day will begin with an engaging presentation at 11:00 am by renowned Cree singer-songwriter, educator, and motivational speaker Walter MacDonald White Bear, who will share his music and stories in a one-hour interactive session designed to spark awareness, dialogue, and understanding. Following this, at 12:00 pm attendees will enjoy traditional Indigenous Bannock, prepared by the talented Indigenous chef and cultural facilitator Russ Baker, well- known for his delicious Bannock as well as his passionate commitment to cultural education. The celebration continues with a lively Indigenous-led Kitchen Party at 12:45 -2:45 pm in the Sheep River Library’s central space, featuring music, storytelling, and an open jam session led by Walter and local musicians. We invite any local musicians to bring their instruments along to join in! This is everyone’s opportunity to make music together and have a great time! Simultaneously, Russ Baker will lead traditional Indigenous Games at Flare ‘n Derrick, (outside weather permitting) providing youth and young adults with an opportunity to learn and engage with time-honored activities like Hoop and Arrow, the Hand and Stick Game, and Double Ball. This unique event emphasizes unity, shared experiences, and cross-cultural celebration. It’s a day to listen, learn, laugh, and build connections. Registration for this event is recommended (especially for the Indigenous games) but not required. For more information, visit www.sheepriverlibrary.ca or contact the library in person or by phone (403-933-3278).
Saturday, June 7 is our annual used book sale. We have thousands of items just wanting to find a new home. The sale runs from 11 am- 4 pm on our front entrance veranda. All items are for sale by cash only donation. Please bring your own bag or wheelbarrow to take away your treasures.
A new monthly program begins on Friday, July 25th : Miserable Millennials Bored? Game Night! If you are aged approximately 28-42 you are welcome to come along. More information can be found on our website and in next month’s article.
There is still time to register for our Summer Camps. All the information for Art Adventures (five different themed camps), Kananaskis Kids’ Choir and STEAM is on our web page. Please note that all camps are offered at a discounted price due to the sponsorship from Foothills Energy Co-op.
Please note the library will closed for Canada Day on Tuesday, July 1.
For links to all events mentioned in this article, visit www.sheepriverlibrary.ca/News
