The Living Sky Casino is the place to be if you are looking to experience indigenous culture today. 

Today is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day devoted to recognizing the history and enduring legacy of residential schools, and their impact on Canadian culture for both non and indigenous peoples. 

Folks looking to learn about indigenous history, art, and culture can head to the Living Sky Casino events centre, where the Indigenous Connections Trade Show is taking place. 

A pair of vendors watch the performances taking place on stage. A pair of vendors watch the performances taking place on stage. 

The event offers various trade booths and vendors to browse, with representatives from local first nations like the Nekaneet attending, along with Swift Current-based groups like the Truth and Reconciliation Committee. 

Representing the Truth and Reconciliation Committee is Co-Chair, Bula Ghosh, who along with other members helped to start this event last year. 

"We want to have people understand what the truth of the truth and reconciliation is about," said Ghosh. "What people can do themselves if they want to participate in the reconciliation process."

A circle dance that got a few members of the crowd to join in, and learn the moves. A circle dance that got a few members of the crowd to join in, and learn the moves. 

One of the main draws for people will be the traditional singing and dancing taking place at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. in the main event centre stage. The singing, drum playing, and presenting are being done by Dustin Strongarm, while the dancing is performed by his daughters.

A big reason to attend these events is to challenge any preconceived notions. Ghosh recommends everyone come and talk, discuss, and learn about Truth and Reconciliation. 

A father and his daughters who came out to check out the trade show. A father and his daughters who came out to check out the trade show. 

For Living Sky Casino, the chance to be the venue for this event is something they cherish. Ashley Peterson, the general manager of the Living Sky Casino, plans to continue hosting this event, which has doubled in size and popularity since last year. 

"We don't plan to slow down on this one anytime soon," said Peterson. "We feel that there is definitely some interest from the community in terms of aboriginal culture, and bringing that awareness to Swift Current and the surrounding area." 

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