National Indigenous People's Day 2020
June 21st marks National Indigenous People's Day across Canada - a day to celebrate and honour the rich culture and heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in Canada. Although celebrations at this time of year (Summer Solstice) have a long and rich history with Indigenous communities across Canada, the call for a national celebration came later,
in 1982, when the National Indian Brotherhood (presently the
Assembly of First Nations
) suggested establishing a day of recognition (Kudelik, 2018). The Government of Canada held its first
Indigenous People's Day (formerly National Aboriginal Day) on June 21, 1996, and in 2009, declared June to be National Indigenous History Month (formerly, National Aboriginal History Month) (Kudelik, 2018). Presently, National Indigenous People's Day is only considered a statutory holiday in the Yukon and Northwest Territories, but there has been a push in recent years to have this day recognized as a statutory holiday by the remaining provinces and territories (Kudelik, 2018).
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The importance of National Indigenous People's Day this month could not be more critical at this time. Historic and present acts of discrimination and violence towards persons of Indigenous descent across Canada (including deaths during police interventions, disproportionate representation in the justice system, excessive violence during arrests, and over-representation in the foster care system) are at the forefront of news media presently, and although these acts of racism have been occurring for many, many generations, new light is being shed on them due to the numerous protests occurring across the country, the continent, and the world. Also, the COVID-19 outbreak has caused widespread illness and death, and as a result, individuals have become socially isolated over the past few months in an attempt to stop the spread of the illness. These two events have culminated in increased stress and anxiety, sadness, confusion, and loneliness for many. The impact this can have on children and youth, particularly those who are a part of racialized communities such as Indigenous children and youth, can be profound. The need for cultural connection is important at any time, but is absolutely critical right now. ALIGN wanted to create a monthly newsletter that would act as a support for caregivers of Indigenous children and youth to provide learning and growth for caregivers, and most importantly, connection to culture and heritage for Indigenous children and youth. Each month will feature a spotlight story, such as this one, that will highlight a unique cultural connection opportunity, an important event, or an important person in the community. It will also contain additional programs and resources, as well as professional development and advocacy supports.
If you have an idea for a spotlight story, or a resource to tell us about, please contact [email protected].
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Are you looking for a way to have a socially distanced celebration this year? Check out
this list
of virtual celebrations by Indigenous Corporate Training Inc.
ALIGN celebrates the history, cultures, and achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada. We also reflect on the discrimination, abuse, and trauma that have, and continue to be faced by Indigenous persons in Canada. We continue to advocate for reconciliation and the equitable treatment of Canada's First Nations, Inuit and Métis persons in Canada, particularly our children and youth who are in care.
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Workshops, Programs and Resources
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The Iiyika’kimaat program provides Indigenous youth, aged 12-21 years, an opportunity to reach their full potential through culturally-relevant and leadership-specific components and activities. The word Iiyika’kimaat means “to try hard” in Blackfoot, which was gifted to the agency after consultation with community elders.
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In addition to their numerous Indigenous services and supports, Closer to Home has created a Virtual Drum Circle program, led by Frank Turning Robe and Darcy Turning Robe.
Family Circle runs Thursdays 1-2:30 PM and Men's Circle on Thursdays 4:30-6 PM.
Email [email protected] to register.
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Indigenous youth can tune in at the same time every week for chats on mental health, creative workshops, interviews with cool folks, and more! Follow them for details.
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Professional Development and Advocacy
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The Wahkohtowin Lodge responds to the expressed needs of Indigenous communities and organizations who want effective strategies to identify, rebuild and develop law and governance structures that resonate within their own legal and governance traditions. Specifically, this resource has a wealth of information and updates on Bill C-92.
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