Happy Indigenous History Month!

As we welcome June and the warm sunshine, please join us in celebrating the National Indigenous History Month. Celebrating the rich and vibrant history and culture of the Indigenous peoples of Canada is imperative to recognize the strength, resilience, and contributions that they have previously made, and continue to make to create the beautiful land we call home here in Canada. 

June 21st also marks the holiday of National Indigenous People’s Day along with the Summer Solstice, or the longest day of the year.  This day holds great significance as it symbolizes the arrival of a new season and the opportunity to start afresh, leaving behind past burdens. The Summer Solstice is celebrated with various cultural events, ceremonies, and festivities that highlight the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and the natural world.

While we make efforts to honor the culture and traditions of the Indigenous Peoples, it’s important to amplify the voices of our Indigenous families, friends, and neighbors to effectively learn and obtain knowledge on how to end the indignification they face through the acts of racism, intolerance, colonial systemic structures, environmental neglect for their reserves, etc. One powerful way to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis experiences is by engaging with Indigenous storytelling. This can be done by reading books by Indigenous authors, attending cultural events such as Powwows, watching films, and listening to music by Indigenous artists. These stories provide valuable insights into the lived experiences, struggles, and triumphs of Indigenous communities.

Educating ourselves on the history of Indigenous culture and the continued efforts made by these resilient groups to eliminate colonial ideals and discriminatory systems is significant in the process of honoring Indigenous History Month. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada was created in 2008 and continued on until 2015 when 94 calls of action arose from the research and summaries concluded by the Commission relating to the mass cultural genocide and assimilation that was projected onto the Indigenous peoples of Canada including the First Nations, Inuit, and Metis. It is important we recognize that the truth and reconciliation efforts for Indigenous folks is an ongoing individual and collective process that requires immense humility and grace for Indigenous Peoples. 

National Indigenous History Month is a time to celebrate, learn, and reflect. By honoring the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples, amplifying their voices, and committing to truth and reconciliation, we can contribute to a more inclusive and just society. Let us use this month to deepen our understanding, build stronger relationships, and work towards a future where Indigenous communities are respected and empowered.

As we honor the significant history and culture of the Indigenous peoples, I would like to acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting grounds, gathering place, and travelling route to the Cree, Saulteaux (So-toe), Blackfoot, Métis, Dene (De-nay) and Nakota Sioux (Sue). We acknowledge all the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries.