Peter Shokeir | [email protected]
The Jasper Canada Day Committee is planning to show respect and support for the Indigenous community through programming over the summer.
The committee says the decision was made for pared-down celebrations in light of recent events and with concern for the safety of the community.
“On Canada Day we ask you to come together as a community to reflect on the Indigenous history of Jasper and Canada, to support our local businesses and to enjoy our beautiful part of the world that is Jasper National Park,” the committee said in a June 20 statement.
“We encourage residents and businesses to display orange hearts in support of the families and communities mourning the lives of the 215 unmarked graves recently discovered on the former site of the Kamloops Indian Residential School.”
Summer programming will also highlight Canada’s Indigenous cultures throughout the summer.
As well, Jasper Fire and Ice will offer a Canada Day Box for those seeking to enjoy Jasper’s tradition of the pancake breakfast and barbeque at home.
In the past, Canada Day celebrations typically featured a pancake breakfast followed by a flag-raising, a parade and a party in the park.
The committee says further updates will be posted on its social media channels, which include www.facebook.com/JasperCanadaDay
