June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day throughout Canada. A time for Canadians to come together, reflect on and celebrate the unique heritage, traditions, and knowledge of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Many towns, cities and First Nations and Indigenous organizations host family-friendly events which are open to the public, to join in the celebrations.
Local Events on June 21st
Waterloo Regional Museum, Schneider House: Everyone is welcome to participate in the festivities: https://calendar.waterlooregionmuseum.ca/EventsList/Detail/2024-06-21-1100-Indigenous-Peoples-Day
National Indigenous Peoples Day & Sunrise Ceremony – City of Toronto: Celebrate in Toronto with a sunrise ceremony and various cultural activities: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/indigenous-events-awards/indigenous-peoples-day/
Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre 21st Anniversary Traditional Pow Wow – Simcoe County: Experience traditional pow wow celebrations in the Simcoe County region: https://www.anishinabek.ca/event/georgian-bay-native-friendship-centre-21st-anniversary-traditional-pow-wow/
In the Thunder Bay region, Marina Park – Pow Wow, Crafters, Sunrise Ceremony and more: https://www.thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/national-indigenous-peoples-day.aspx
Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival – Ottawa: Join the vibrant celebrations in Ottawa, featuring music, dance, and more: https://summersolsticefestivals.ca/
7 Ways to Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day in Northeastern Ontario: Discover various ways to celebrate in Northern Ontario: https://northernontario.travel/northeastern-ontario/7-ways-celebrate-indigenous-peoples-day-northeastern-ontario
Explore Resources
National Center for Truth and Reconciliation – Explore the history and ongoing impact of residential schools: https://nctr.ca/
The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund – Discover initiatives aimed at reconciliation and the legacy of Chanie Wenjack: https://downiewenjack.ca/ihm-2024/
First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Learning Resources: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512
National Indigenous History Month, by the Numbers: https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/dai/smr08/2024/smr08_280
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Treaty Website: https://nantreaties.ca/
Indigenous Canada Online Course: Take a free course offered by the University of Alberta to deepen your knowledge about Indigenous history and culture: https://uab.ca/indigenous-canada