Kamloops, BC—The City of Kamloops is pleased to announce its support of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc in their bid to host the 2027 North American Indigenous Games in Kamloops. This support includes up to $500,000 of in-kind support in the form of facilities and staff time and a potential cash contribution should the bid be successful.
The 2027 North American Indigenous Games is the largest multi sport and cultural event hosted in Canada and the United States and specifically targets Indigenous populations. Historically, the North American Indigenous Games has brought together more than 5,000 athletes, coaches, and team staff from over 756 Indigenous Nations to celebrate, share, and reconnect through sport and culture.
In Canada, the North American Indigenous Games are a fundamental component of the Indigenous sport movement as they have effected positive change in the health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples. The North American Indigenous Games Council—the international governing body for the Games—ensures the purposes and philosophies are reflected in all aspects of the Games and works in a manner that is consistent with the cultural, spiritual, and traditional values of the people it represents.
Each North American Indigenous Games features eight days of competition in July in up to 16 sports. The sporting events may include 3D archery, athletics, badminton, baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, box lacrosse, canoe/kayak, golf, rifle shooting, soccer, softball, swimming, volleyball, and wrestling.
“The North American Indigenous Games represents the pinnacle of interprovincial/territorial sport and cultural celebration which embodies the cultural, spiritual, and traditional values of our people,” said Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc.
“Kamloops is proud to have world-class facilities that can support Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc in hosting this monumental event. Our community has a proven track record of providing an exceptional athlete experience,” said Sean Smith, the City’s Business Operations and Events Supervisor.
The North American Indigenous Games are held every four years and use a geographic rotation when choosing the next location. The 2020 North American Indigenous Games were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next Games will be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 2023. The 2027 bid is for the western region, and the next opportunity for this region to host is in 2039.