Blog Post, News, Uncategorized

National Indigenous Peoples Month

Posted on by irishinbc
17
Jun

June is National Indigenous History Month. This is a month to take time to recognise the rich history, heritage, culture, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. Non-Indigenous people can pursue their journey of allyship through education and reflection.

For 2024, the Government of Canada has dedicated each week in June to a different theme to highlight specific aspects of Indigenous history, cultures and perspectives. Using this link to explore learning resources on each theme:

  • June 1 to 9: Environment, traditional knowledge and territory
  • June 10 to 16: Children and youth
  • June 17 to 23: Languages, cultures and arts
  • June 24 to 30: Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

To discover ways to engage with National Indigenous History Month and beyond, please check out the resources below.


Connect with Surrounding Communities:

Some options for local celebrations on June 21st are as follows:

  • Vancouver
    • EAST VAN – National Indigenous Day at Grandview Park. The event begins with a pancake breakfast at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre (1607 East Hastings Street) and is followed by a Friendship Walk along Commercial Drive. To learn more or sign up to volunteer, please see here. 
    • DOWNTOWN – National Indigenous Peoples Day Block Party Celebration at Carnagie Community Centre on June 21, noon to 6pm Main Street, between East Hastings and East Pender, will be closed for the celebration, offering a stage for cultural performances, community organization table, and opportunities for the public from all over Vancouver and the DTES to gather and celebrate together. Further info here.
    • KITSILANO – There’s also a special edition of Kitsilano Showboat on June 21st, 2024. The performers that night are Steven Seegerts & the Urban Aboriginal Drum Circle, and Indigenous storyteller and dancer Katisha Paul.
  • Burnaby
    National Indigenous Day at Edmonds Park and Plaza. Further info here.
  • Chilliwack
    Chillcouture: Shxwthit’awkw’ | Indigenous Peoples Day Fashion, Arts & Music Gala The beautiful Shxwá:y Cultural Centre will provide the backdrop for a gala evening showcasing & celebrating a cultural evening of Indigenous fashion, art, music & cuisine! Tickets can be purchased here.
  • Kamloops
    Join Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc on June 21st from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm as they celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in style! Delight your senses with a feast from food trucks, immerse yourself in the rhythms of traditional drumming and singing and witness captivating performances by dancers. Plus, prepare to be mesmerized by an awe-inspiring aerial light show and much more throughout the day! Further info here.
  • Kelowna
    Save the Date for the Métis Rendezvous on June 21, 2024 in Kelowna City Park from 11am-4pm. Come celebrate and enjoy some culture. Further info here.
  • Mission
     Come celebrate the culture, traditions, and community contributions of Indigenous people at the Fraser River Heritage Park in Mission! This year’s theme is healing through mind, body, and spirit, so expect to see all kinds of inspired art and performance. All are welcome to come and enjoy the scheduled activities, including crafts, drumming, face painting, yoga, storytelling and more. Further info here.
  • New Westminster
    This event is hosted in collaboration with the Spirit of the Children Society, Qayqayt First Nation and the City of New Westminster. There will be cultural entertainment, physical activities, arts and crafts, Indigenous vendors and storytelling. Further info here.
  • Sechelt
    Syíyaya Days began in 2022 with a partnership between the District of Sechelt, the shíshálh Nation, and the syíyaya Reconciliation Movement. The multi-day event starts on June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day and wraps up with a community parade on July 1, Canada Day. Further info here.
  • Surrey
    National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration & Wellness Event at the Bill Reid Millenium Amphitheatre. Further info here.
  • West Vancouver
    National Indigenous Day at Ambleside. Further info here.


Celebrate Cultures

Additional suggestions for events and activities are as follows:


Continue Learning

Discover ways to better understand the complexity of Indigenous histories and experiences and share them with those around you.

Know the Key Reports and Findings

Understand the important work that has taken place and help achieve the Calls to Action.

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