June is National Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month. Throughout this month & always, we take this opportunity to celebrate the rich history, heritage, diversity & significant contributions that First Nations, Métis & Inuit peoples have made in shaping Canada. We continue to work with our Indigenous communities, including our local First Nations, both Six Nations of the Grand River and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, as we continue to learn from their stories, traditions and cultures.
June 21 is also National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. This day was created in collaboration between Indigenous organizations and the Government of Canada in 1996. It is a day for all Canadians to recognize the “unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Métis & Inuit peoples.” Although these groups have many shared similarities, it is important to note that they each have their own “distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.”
In response to the recent news from Kamloops, BC, and in honour of the 215 children whose remains were recently found at the site of the former Kamloops Residential School, all flags across Grand Erie are lowered for nine days, beginning May 31. These nine days amount to 215 hours to represent the life of each child lost.
Throughout the month of June, students, staff, families and community members are also encouraged to wear orange in honour of their memory.
Below are some resources for students, families and community members to learn more about National Indigenous History Month:
- Learn more about Treaties and Treaty relationships:
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100028574/1529354437231
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For more information on how you can participate in this month, please visit:
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1621447127773/1621447157184 - Learn more about how the Government of Canada is working to “advance reconciliation and renew the relationship with Indigenous peoples:
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1400782178444/1529183710887
Please visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn more and view additional resources:
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512