shíshálh Nation welcomed the community to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day today, June 21, with songs and dance performances by children and youth led by Alfonso Salinas, traditional wellness coordinator for the Nation.
The celebration at the Nation Hall marks the beginning of the broader syíyaya Days festival, an 11-day community-wide celebration of Indigenous culture and reconciliation that continues through July 1.
This year's theme, "Believing is Seeing," reflects a commitment to understanding and celebrating Indigenous perspectives.
An Indigenous Peoples Day Craft Fair continues until 4 p.m. today at the hall (located behind McDonald’s on the Sunshine Coast Highway) , allowing visitors to explore booths featuring handcrafted items from local artisans, included hand woven cedar hats created by Shy Watters of Aupe Studio, and cedar carvings by her husband, Derek Georgeson.
A Kids’ Fun Zone at the Waterfront Soccer Field included a bouncy castle, cotton candy and a petting zoo for young visitors.
"On behalf of shíshálh Nation, we are honoured to support the 2025 syíyaya Days and recognize the vital role this celebration plays in fostering unity, cultural understanding, and reconciliation on the Sunshine Coast,” said lhe hiwus yalxwemult (Chief Lenora Joe) in a press release. “Events like syíyaya Days provide important opportunities to reflect on our shared histories, uplift Indigenous voices, and walk together in the spirit of collaboration and respect. We raise our hands to all those involved in organizing and supporting this meaningful event."
You can find more information about upcoming syíyaya Days events here.
