The entire month of June is - a time for all Canadians - Indigenous, non-Indigenous and newcomers - to reflect upon and learn the history, sacrifices, cultures, contributions, and strength of First Nations, Inuit and Metis people. This reflection and learning opportunity can be seen as a strive towards truth and reconciliation across all ethnicities and race, ages, gender, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, political beliefs, physical or cognitive abilities, and religious beliefs. This month challenge yourself to some virtual or in-home activities to learn more about the First Peoples of Canada.
June 21, 2021 is the Canadian National 25th anniversary of celebrating the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples!
Why June 21? For centuries, many of the first inhabitants would celebrate the arrival of the warm weather and the pleasures of the summer solstice. The summer solstice is the day of the year with the longest light. It is a day with spiritual significance for many people and is a good time to celebrate Indigenous peoples and cultures.
Activities for National Indigenous Peoples Day are organized across Canada every year. You can take part by getting in touch with an Indigenous community or a local Indigenous organization, or by organizing your own activities with your relatives and friends. National Indigenous Peoples Day is for all Canadians, to share in the celebration and education. For more information about the day's activities, you can visit
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013248/1534872397533
Here’s what you can do:
- Check Social Media! Look up #NIHM2021 or #nationalindigenoushistorymonth on your favourite social media channel and see what people are posting
- Watch a documentary or YouTube video! Excellent sources of information, here’s a starting point https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVNZQ-0ka48
- Take an online course! Search online for free courses in Indigenous topics such as https://www.coursera.org/learn/indigenous-canada
- Read a book! Books are a simple way to explore the world and educate yourself and others about the history of our First People. https://www.cbc.ca/books/fatty-legs-1.4008647 or https://www.cbc.ca/books/kamloopa-an-indigenous-matriarch-story-1.6012147
Source: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013251/1534874002459
