The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) has announced a series of immersive cultural experiences throughout June in commemoration of National Indigenous History Month.
On National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), public activities will include an artists’ market, curator tours, storytelling performances, the Salish Summer Carving Series, live comedy and crafts—with free admission. Lululemon partners to facilitate yoga at Istken Hall for the summer solstice, and the Whistler Film Festival (WFF) will premiere an Indigenous short film series in the SLCC theatre.
During the rest of the month, feature exhibitions such as Ta na wa Yúus ta Stitúyntsam̓ / skel7áw̓lh and the Declaration of the Lillooet Tribes invite guests to connect with the land and its people. Other experiences include the Holistic Tour and Indigenous Tea Offering, craft workshops and guided tours of the Salish Forest.
Ray Natraoro (Ses Siyam) of the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation Artist Redmond Q̓áwam̓ Andrews have contributed Indigenous art to be displayed on 20 Evolve e-bikes all summer long.
“The SLCC is thrilled to host an amazing mix of cultural experiences offering a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with the rich heritage and living traditions of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations,” says SLCC Cultural Leader T’ec Georgina Dan in a press release.
“We are grateful for the support of our partners in promoting authentic connections and a deeper understanding. Come celebrate the rich history and contributions of Indigenous People, and the Skwxwú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl have made and continue to make every day.”
Adds Liza Walli, Executive Director of the SLCC: “We hope that Whistler visitors and locals alike will spend time with us at the SLCC through June, and especially on National Indigenous People’s Day to celebrate the authentic stories, history and thriving culture of the shared territories in Whistler”.
More information can be found on the SLCC website.