Why is June named Indigenous Month and why is it important?
June 5th, 2023
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada. Indigenous Month plays a crucial role in recognizing and honoring the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, promoting reconciliation, and fostering understanding and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. It is an opportunity for education, reflection, advocacy, and action towards a more equitable and inclusive society.This period is dedicated to paying tribute to the narratives, accomplishments, and strength of Indigenous communities, who have inhabited this land since time immemorial and have profoundly influenced the development of Canada. Recognizing the significance of Indigenous heritage, the House of Commons officially declared June as National Aboriginal History Month in 2009. In 2017, the name was amended to National Indigenous History Month.
What is the importance of National Indigenous Day?
National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on June 21st in Canada. In collaboration with Indigenous organizations and the Government of Canada selected the summer solstice, June 21st, as the designated date for National Aboriginal Day. Which has since been renamed in 2017, National Indigenous Peoples Day. It’s a day that commemorates and celebrates the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada and exceptional contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.The Canadian Constitution acknowledges these three collectives as Aboriginal peoples, alternatively referred to as Indigenous peoples. Furthermore, many gatherings and events take place on National Indigenous Peoples Day. To represents initiatives aimed at acknowledging and honoring the distinctive cultures and valuable contributions of Indigenous peoples within Canada. It helps promote understanding and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
Some resources to learn more about National Indigenous Day:
National Indigenous Day Celebrations:
- June 8th, 2023 9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. | Hearing Indigenous Voices During the COVID-19 Pandemic | Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre 6163 University Boulevard Vancouver | Free registration
- June 15th, 2023 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. | CTLT Indigenous Initiatives Virtual Coffee Drop-in | Virtual Zoom Meeting – Free registration
- June 17th – 18th | Sasuqautch Day | Harrison Hot Springs – Free
- June 21st | National Indigenous Peoples Day | Trout Lake – Free
- June 20th, 2023 12:00 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. | Weaving Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being in Palliative Care | Virtual Zoom Meeting – Free registration
- June 21st, 2023 3:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. | National Indigenous Peoples Day Surrey, Holland Park – 13428 Old Yale Road
- June 20th, 2023 | Bill Reid Gallery Vancouver | Free Admission
- June 21st, from 3:30 until 8:00 pm. | National Indigenous Peoples Day activities | Ambleside Park
- June 21st, 2023 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | National Indigenous Day |Carnegie Community Centre & Queen Elizabeth Plaza
- June 21st, 2023. 10:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M. | National Indigenous Peoples Day in New Westminster |Moody Park in New Westminster
- June 21st, 2023. 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. | National Indigenous Peoples Day in Maple Ridge |Memorial Peace Park at 11900 224th Street
- June 21st, 2023 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. | Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre – Free Admission |4584 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
- June 21st, 2023 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | Weaving Relations Launch Event | Fred Kaiser Atrium – Free registration
Interested in staying up to to date to CEIH news? Sign up for our newsletter here