Indigenous culture and community is being celebrated all Saturday long in West 琉璃神社.

The 7 Celebrations event organized by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), took place on Saturday at Memorial Park and the Annette Beaudreau Amphitheatre. It is a day to celebrate Indigenous culture through dance, song, and storytelling.

7 Celebrations was named after the 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Thompson Okanagan Pledge which was inspired by Indigenous philosophy that the actions we make today will have a lasting impact for 7 generations to come. The 7 affirmations on the pledge are:

• True Roots;
• Tread Lightly;
• Be a good Neighbour;
• Travel Safely;
• Live in Harmony;
• Shop Local;
• Educate Others.

On top of music and games, many local vendors were on display for people to practice the 鈥榮hop local鈥� affirmation. Live music is going on at the amphitheatre until 9:30 p.m. with many artists taking the stage, including Juno Award nominee The Oot n鈥� Oots family act.

TOTA鈥檚 goal with this event is to celebrate the traditions, stories and cultures of the region鈥檚 communities to ensure they live on for years to come, which is in keeping with the association鈥檚 philosophy to embrace the preservation of the Thompson Okanagan environment and Indigenous cultures as a foundation for promoting international tourism.

Salmon Arm, Vernon, Shuswap, Sun Peaks, Cache Creek, Osoyoos, and more communities around the Okanagan have also held 7 Celebrations events.

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jordy.cunningham@kelownacapnews.com
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