The community is invited to an upcoming event in Langley centered around expressing gratitude and observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Members of the Snohomish Tribe of Indians are facilitating this event, which takes place at 4 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 10 near the track at the South Whidbey Community Center. Attendance is free for members of the public.

Linda Porter, a member of the Snohomish Tribe, said part of the observance event includes appreciation for volunteers who participated in the tribal canoe landing and cultural exchange that happened earlier this year.

In addition, as a symbol of goodwill, tribe members will plant a cedar tree gifted to them by an anonymous couple residing in Langley.

“Cedar is a traditional gift for us, it’s a resource,” Porter said. “Everything from weavings for baskets and clothing and even diapers were created from cedar.”

With the observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Porter said, it is important to acknowledge the local indigenous populations that currently live in South Whidbey and walk the same lands as their ancestors.

Native American flutist Peter Ali will also be playing at the event. People are encouraged to bring a chair and to dress appropriately for the weather.