June is National Indigenous History Month, a time of significance to acknowledge and appreciate the rich history, resilience, and diversity of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.
As of the 2021 Census, more than 1.8 million people in Canada identify as an Indigenous person.
June was declared National Indigenous History Month in 2009. This year, the month is broken down into weekly themes.
June also marks the beginning of Pride Season, which lasts until September.
June 21st is designated National Indigenous Peoples Day; the date is significant because it aligns with the summer solstice, which symbolizes a time of renewal and reflection.
It was officially designated in 1996 and was originally called National Aboriginal Day. The official designation came after calls from groups of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people for a national holiday to recognize the contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
In 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day. In 1995, the Sacred Assembly also called for a national holiday for Indigenous Peoples. That same year, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the National First Peoples Day designation.
In 2017, National Aboriginal Day was renamed to National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples have rich histories and cultures, and you can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month by learning about each group.
Click on the following links to learn more about:
In addition to learning about the culture of Indigenous Peoples, you can get involved by attending a local event near you or by connecting with others on social media; interacting with and sharing posts about Indigenous Peoples can help you and others discover more stories and traditions.
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