June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada: Participate, Learn & Support

National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about diverse cultures, traditions and the rich history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. Canada’s House of Commons designated June as National Indigenous History Month in 2009, encouraging Canadians to learn more about Canada’s First Peoples.
June 21 is National Indigenous People Day and Summer Solstice. This is a time to honour the stories, achievements and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial.
Join us and participate in learning about the many cultural activities and events that will take place in our region, our province and across Canada this month:
Ways to participate:
- Engage in meaningful dialogue and build connections with Indigenous peoples and communities, such as joining in cultural celebrations such as a pow wow
- Read the history of residential schools:
- Survivor’s stories
- The 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report
- Listen to First Nations, Inuit and Métis through their own voices, created by Indigenous people:
- Read a book
- Watch a film or video
- Listen to music
- Listen to a podcast
- Watch APTN showcasing:
- Indigenous artists
- Comedians
- Documentaries
- Check out your local Friendship Centre, Manitoba Métis Federation website, or The Forks in Winnipeg
- Wear orange in support of “Every Child Matters”. It is not just for September 30th, you can show your allyship anytime.
- Visit a museum:
- The National Indigenous Residential School Museum of Canada which is located within the former Portage la Prairie Indian Residential School and on Long Plain Keeshkeemaquah Urban Reserve https://nirsmuseum.ca/#
- The Inuit art display at the Winnipeg Art Gallery (which houses the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world with over 13,000 works)
- Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg
- And connect with nature – these are just a few ways to support and participate
If you’re interested in showing your participation or sharing your learning journey with fellow colleagues at Southern Health-Santé Sud connect with Human Resources via email. You are encouraged to share your photos and/or testimonials.
Submitted by: Indigenous Health & Human Resources