This month VSB celebrated the 13th Annual First Peoples’ Festival, hosted in collaboration with the Museum of Anthropology (MOA). The festival took place on April 7 for elementary students and April 8 for secondary students. 

Grade 10 students, Lily, Henry, Ambrose and Anabel from Kitsilano Secondary School share their experience below:
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We were thrilled to attend the 13th Annual First Peoples’ Festival at the MOA! 

Here, we were witness to an incredible welcome by The Coastal Wolf Pack and we were grateful to learn from Indigenous educators Robin Roberts and DJ O Show. Through the teachings of Robin Roberts, we are now able to identify the differences between Coast Salish and Formline techniques when looking at First People’s art. We gained a lot through this experience and valued the opportunity to learn from stories told through Indigenous belongings and storytellers. 

We will cherish these memories and use the knowledge gained to further our education on Indigenous culture and heritage. 

About the Festival: 

The First Peoples’ Festival provides opportunities for students and staff to enhance their understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions and history. It includes a variety of engaging and interactive workshops lead by local Indigenous educators and professionals. 

The goal is to promote the diversity of Indigenous people to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, with all groups benefitting by gaining knowledge and understanding through participation in learning opportunities.