New street banners hanging in downtown Langford celebrate both Indigenous history and Pride month with a colourful image of a “rainbow” trout.
Jeannie Chipps’ design draws from the artwork of her father, Russ Chipps, chief of Sc’ianew First Nation (Beecher Bay).
“I wanted to create a unity between the 2SLGBTQIA+ and the Indigenous communities that would be seen as powerful for both groups and equally meaningful for people residing in both groups,” Jeannie Chipps said.
The project aligns with council’s goals of reconciliation, diversity and inclusion, the city said in a statement.
“Fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and included is a priority of council,” said Mayor Scott Goodmanson.
The city will participate for the first time in the Victoria Pride Parade on July 7. Langford is a member of the Victoria Pride Society.
Langford is hosting a Pride celebration at the Langford Station, 720 Station Ave., on June 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. with the Victoria Beer Society.
Council’s strategic plan calls for the development of the city’s first equity, diversity and inclusion strategy alongside an arts and culture plan.
In the coming months, the city plans to seek input from the community and key partners to help shape the future of arts and culture in Langford.
Langford is hosting the annual ChangeMakers Gathering Festival on June 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Starlight Stadium, where the public is invited to celebrate Indigenous art, culture, values and history.
The free event will feature a Coast Salish art workshop, Indigenous artisan market, bannock taco lunch and live music.
