National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21

The Elected Chief Councillor of the K’ómoks First Nation, the Chair of the Comox Valley Regional District and the Mayors of Comox, Courtenay and Cumberland, have jointly issued the following statement in advance of National Indigenous Peoples Day:

The K’ómoks First Nation and local governments will come together in celebration on Wednesday June 21, at the invitation of the K’ómoks Festival group, to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day together as a community on the Nation’s traditional unceded territory.

We look forward to gathering to learn, share and strengthen our relationship as we acknowledge and commemorate the strength, resilience and diversity of Indigenous People. In doing so, we respect and remember these lands have supported Indigenous communities for thousands of years before the arrival of settlers to their territories.

Here in the Comox Valley, we are grateful for the privilege to live work and play on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation and we acknowledge the rich history of the people of the Sathloot, Sasitla, Ieeksun, Xa’xe and Pentlatch tribes.

Local governments in the Comox Valley have embraced the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People and have formally recognized their commitment to reconciliation. With the support and guidance of K’ómoks First Nation, we are on a journey together to build a culture of meaningful engagement between our organizations.

One of the best ways that we move forward together is to learn from one another and we encourage residents of the Comox Valley to join the festivities from 3 pm to 7 pm across from the Puntledge RV Campground. This is a free family event for the whole community and all are welcome to join in the celebration which includes storytelling, dance, culture, craftsmanship, heritage, stewardship and community. For more information visit www.komoksfestival.com.

On behalf of the K’ómoks First Nation, Comox Valley Regional District, City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland, please join us in celebrating together the heritage, contributions and unique cultures of First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities in the Comox Valley and across Canada.

Sincerely,

Elected Chief Councillor Ken Price, K’ómoks First Nation
Chair Jesse Ketler, Comox Valley Regional District
Mayor Bob Wells, City of Courtenay
Mayor Nicole Minions, Town of Comox
Mayor Vickey Brown, Village of Cumberland

The City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland and the Comox Valley Regional District respectfully acknowledge the land on which they operate is on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.