Richmond celebrates National Indigenous History Month with workshops and storytelling
Free and paid programs run through June, featuring Cree author, cedar weaving, and film.
Richmond is hosting a series of events and workshops throughout June to recognize National Indigenous History Month, partnering with community associations, the Richmond Public Library, and local organizations.
June celebrates the history, culture, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in Canada. June 21 — National Indigenous People's Day — coincides with summer solstice, a day with deep cultural significance for many Indigenous communities.
Key events include an afternoon of storytelling with Cree and Scottish author Monique Gray Smith on Tuesday, June 2, at Richmond Public Library's Ironwood branch (1–2 p.m., free, grades 3–6). Gray Smith will discuss her children's books and read from her latest work, Kohkum's First Drum.
Hands-on cedar weaving workshops run June 7 at Richmond Cultural Centre Annex, led by Musqueam weaver Vivian Mearns Notaro. Participants create twined cedar bark bracelets while learning traditional harvesting and preparation techniques. Three sessions run from 10:30–11:30 a.m., 1–2 p.m., and 3–4 p.m. (free, ages 6–12 with parent participation).
An artist talk with Inuit and settler filmmaker Lyndsay McIntyre happens Thursday, June 11, at 6 p.m. at Richmond Cultural Centre's Theatre Under the Stairs. McIntyre will present selections from her short documentaries and experimental films exploring portraiture, place, and urban Inuit experiences (free, ages 16+).
Additional workshops include natural dye dyeing (Saturday, June 20) and cedar bracelet weaving (Sunday, June 14, $20). Most programs require pre-registration through richmond.ca/register.