The return of a July 1st event in the City of Selkirk will look a bit different this year and feel a bit different.
Culture Coordinator Ellie Longbottom says high water in the Red River has prompted the relocation of Selkirk’s Canada Day to the Recreation Complex, and the city is seizing the day as an opportunity for people to learn more about our country’s history.
“People celebrate Canada Day in many different ways,” Longbottom said.
Working Toward Reconciliation
“The City of Selkirk is working towards reconciliation and we’re providing an educational opportunity with our Canada Day page on the city website. People can visit myselkirk.ca/canadaday and learn about First Nations, Inuit, Metis histories and cultures, the history of residential schools and Truth and Reconciliation. We’re happy to be able to gather and celebrate Canada Day again, and we’re equally happy to add an educational component to it.”
Longbottom said the city engaged with Indigenous community partners to add new layers to the event. This year, the city is encouraging people to wear orange as well as the traditional red colour, to recognize Every Child Matters.
Robin Nishibata, Executive Director of the Selkirk Friendship Centre, said incorporating education of our country’s history into the celebration of the day is important.
“We are happy to work with the City of Selkirk for this Canada Day celebration,” Nishibata said.
“Educating ourselves about our shared history will help us move forward. Together we can celebrate our country with the hope of strengthening our relationship, while embracing our diversity.”
Mayor Larry Johannson said he knows Selkirkians are ready to celebrate Canada’s birthday again, and he’s thrilled that the city has included more culture and education to the day.
“After two long years without being able to get together and celebrate, we’re all more than ready for a good day with friends and family, some music and food and hopefully some sunshine,” Johannson said.
“And I’m really proud that our city is recognizing that Canada Day is a day to reflect on our past, and to learn from it and work towards a better future for all. I think people will embrace the new cultural offerings and the chance to learn more. I can’t wait to see everyone out there.”
Encouraging Green Transportation
The city is encouraging active transportation and the use of Selkirk Transit – a park and ride location will be announced shortly.
Bicycle Valet Winnipeg will be at Selkirk’s Canada Day and the city is encouraging people to ride their bikes to the Rec Complex. Once there, you give your bike to a Bicycle Valet staff member who give you a claim stub. Your bike is stored in a secure site that is staffed throughout the event. You don’t need a lock. For more details on the Bicycle Valet, or any other questions you have about Canada Day, please visit myselkirk.ca/canadaday
The city is partnering with Frontier College and the Selkirk Friendship Centre for a scavenger hunt in Selkirk Park from 9am to 4pm, and with Frontier College for Tales and Trails Walk during that same time.
The Harvester Outdoors Kids Zone runs from 4-8pm at the Recreation Complex.
The Access Credit Union Stage kicks off at 4:15pm with a performance by The Top Secret Band. The performers keep coming right until 9:50 when Jukebox Heroes close out the show.
The biggest fireworks display in the Interlake goes off at 11pm. For a full schedule of events go to myselkirk.ca/canadaday
See you there!
