June is National Indigenous History Month, a dedicated time to acknowledge the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and remarkable contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples to the history and identity of Canada.
On Wednesday, June 21, we commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day that encourages us to explore, learn, and understand more about Indigenous culture and contributions.
How DIALOGers are participating
In conversation
We believe in the importance of sharing stories and educating ourselves on the issues that Indigenous communities face, both historically and today. Thanks to our Indigenous Storytelling Team (IST), we continue to take time this month to become better allies by actively listening and learning.
On May 24, 2023, our Open Forum on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was guided by the IST, taking a focused look at cultural appropriation and alienation within the Indigenous community.
During our discussion, we examined the use of Indigenous designs and the importance of consulting with Indigenous communities. We spoke of cultural respect in our designs, as DIALOGers shared their experiences collaborating with Indigenous consultants and lessons learned to create a respectful environment of co-creation, one that honours the Indigenous ways of knowing and traditional design principles.
Events
There are hundreds of events happening across Canada to celebrate and commemorate. The Government of Canada’s Celebrate Canada program has compiled a thorough list of events, or you can explore what’s available in your area through this interactive map.
Suggested reading
To commemorate this month, CBC Books asked Michelle Good to curate a list of 30 must-read books for National Indigenous History Month. Good is a Cree writer and retired lawyer and a member of the Red Pheasant Cree Nation in Saskatchewan.
Educational resources
Indigenous Canada is a free three-month online course offered by the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Native Studies through the online e-learning platform, Coursera. The course explores key issues facing Indigenous peoples today from a historical and critical perspective highlighting national and local Indigenous-Settler relations.
By actively participating in The Indigenous Canada Initiative, together we will build the foundation necessary to move forward in the spirit of reconciliation.
You can register for this course through Coursera.
