The Town of High River officially recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day today.

Town Councillor Jamie Kinghorn raised the Treaty 7 flag at Town Hall at 9 a.m.

It was also livestreamed on the Town's Facebook page.

The Government of Canada's website states the following about the special day.

"For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on June 21 or around that time of year because of the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year."

Councillor Kinghorn had a prepared statement to read at the flag-raising ceremony.

"Whereas this was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups. Whereas on June 21st, 2017, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing an intention to rename this as National Indigenous Peoples Day. Whereas Canada's National Indigenous Peoples Day gives us a chance to recognize the many achievements of this country's Indigenous Peoples. Whereas three Indigenous Peoples groups exist in Canada, the Inuit, the First Nations, and the Métis. Whereas the day also celebrates the distinct cultures and unique traditions of these native communities. Whereas recent statistics put their population approximately at 1.8 million. Whereas festivities celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Days are held all throughout Canada and every year on June 21st. Now, therefore I Jamie Kinghorn and Council proclaim June 21st, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples Day in the town of High River.

It's part of the Celebrate Canada federal program, which also celebrates Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27 and Canada Day on July 1.