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Kamloops  

Tk'emlups te Secwépemc seeking to host 2027 North American Indigenous Games

Seeking to host 2027 Games

UPDATE: 11:30 a.m.

Kamloops could host the 2027 North American Indigenous Games.

Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir of the Tk'emlups te Secwépemc announced Friday morning that they have been chosen by the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council to be B.C.'s official host candidate community for the 2027 Games. As a result, they have now submitted their letter of intent to bid on the 2027 Games, in partnership with the City of Kamloops.

“We are extremely proud and excited to be selected to represent British Columbia as we compete against western provinces and territories to host the 2027 North American Indigenous Games,” Casimir said.

“This is a historic opportunity for our people and our Nation, to host Indigenous athletes from across North America, and to showcase our beautiful land and Secwépemc culture.”

The North American Indigenous Games is the largest international, multi-sport, and cultural event for Indigenous youth in North America. If the bid is successful, up to 6,000 athletes, coaches, team staff, and cultural performers from over 756 Indigenous Nations in Canada and the United States would arrive in Kamloops in 2027.

Up to 3,000 volunteers will be needed to host the massive event.

The Games are held every four years and Halifax is hosting the Games in 2023. The 2027 bid is limited to the western region. The western region won't be eligible to host the Games again until 2039.

Those competing in the Games will be between 13 and 19 years old, competing in 16 different sports and activities.

The initial bid is due in March 2023, which will be followed by a site tour. The final decision will be made on July 22, 2023. Kamloops is competing against two other jurisdictions to host the Games.

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council announced Friday that it is committing up to $75,000 to assist in the bid.

During the announcement, Casimir said she's excited to show off local Indigenous culture and Kamloops hospitality to the rest of North America.


ORIGINAL: 10:55 a.m.

The Tk'emlups te Secwépemc Council is making a "special announcement" Friday morning from the Moccasin Square Garden.

The announcement is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.



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