Jun 27, 2016

Vancouver BC – Langara College celebrated National Aboriginal Day with two days of festivities on June 21 and 22, 2016. Several Langara Aboriginal students took initiative to coordinate activities over the two days to mark the occasion.

“I am thankful that I was able to play a part in the celebration of National Aboriginal Day. It’s exciting to see all of the positivity surrounding this event, and wonderful to see people sharing their gifts with others while welcoming them to learn about a new and diverse culture,” says Jimmy Aitken, Langara business student.

National Aboriginal Day festivities opened with a song and drum performance, followed by a hoop dancer performance. Students were invited to sample traditional Aboriginal foods including candied salmon, elk sausage, and bannock. Celebrations continued the next day with students being invited to participate in a traditional smudge ceremony as well as a dream catcher workshop.

“It is so encouraging to see out students take the lead in making National Aboriginal Day a College-wide event. I think this really speaks to the inclusive environment Langara provides. Students feel safe and supported when celebrating their cultural diversity. I look forward to seeing more of this on campus,” says Reba Noel from Aboriginal Services.

National Aboriginal Day is recognized each year on June 21 (the approximate date of the summer solstice) to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the Indigenous peoples of Canada. For generations, Indigenous peoples and their communities have chosen the summer solstice to celebrate their culture and heritage. This year marks the 20th anniversary of National Aboriginal Day.

Photos from the event are available on our Flickr gallery.

About Langara
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, Langara College provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies education to more than 21,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path. Langara is also known as house of teachings, a name given to it by the Musqueam people on whose unceded traditional territory the College is located.

Learn more.
Deborah So
Communications Officer
Communications & Marketing
604.323.5014
dso@langara.bc.ca