Okotoks community members gathered to show respect for the Indigenous history and culture.
A pipe ceremony was hosted by the Town of Okotoks on Sunday, May 5 to commemorate National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples.
Elders and Indigenous community leaders spoke at the event, including published author and residential school survivor Ruth Scalp Lock and Siksika Nation councillor Samuel Crowfoot.
"This is a time where you can offer your prayers and show your support and solidarity," said Town of Okotoks Indigenous relations advisor Desmond Jackson before the event.
After the ceremony, which gave attendees an opportunity to respectfully witness and take part in Indigenous tradition, bannock and berry soup were served.
Due to poor weather, the event was held indoors in the Town of Okotoks Municipal Centre.
