Starlight Stadium played host to a celebration of Indigenous culture and knowledge once again Saturday (June 10) as the Change-Makers Gathering Festival returned for its second year.
Despite the morning downpour, dozens of people came out to take in performances by the Lekwungen Drum Group and the Young Wolves, browse Indigenous artist booths, and learning how to make drums and weave cedar.
Of course, the popular bannock tacos were available free of charge thanks to support from FortisBC, with T’Sou-ke First Nation’s Daphne Underwood teaching the stadium’s cooks how to prepare the traditional dish.
“We want to create an opportunity for all community members to spend time together and have the opportunity to experience some Indigenous culture and knowledge sharing,” said Charla Huber, event organizer, in a news release published by the City of Langford. “There are people who want to learn more and aren’t sure where to start.”
The festival is organized based on the Elder’s teaching “If you feel it in your heart, your should do it and not take it home with you.”
“The meaning behind this teaching is if you feel the need to say kind words, offer a kind gesture, you should follow your heart and do it.” said Chief Russ Chipps, Sc’ianew First Nation. “We are so proud of our youth, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers who are sharing our culture, knowledge, and friendship.”
READ MORE: Langford hip-hop dancer going to worlds with national team