ONTARIO - June is National Indigenous History Month. A great way to celebrate is to dive into the rich and diverse rich and diverse histories and current realities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across the province and Canada.
This is an excellent opportunity for the public to learn about the distinct cultures, languages and experiences of Indigenous peoples, as well as how their contributions and achievements have, and continue to, shape our province and country.
Around the region, people can visit their local Indigenous Friendship Centres which offer a wide variety of resources about community-driven projects that are geared toward reconciliation and coping with inter-generational trauma.
In Sioux Lookout, the First Nations Health Authority is sharing pictures and biographies of individuals that advocate for Indigenous Rights, Indigenous artists, actors, authors, health care workers, soldiers, and former chiefs.
The Nishnawbe Aski Nation website has teaching resources on subjects like Jordan’s Principle, a law put in place to ensure that First Nations Youth has access to support services from a cultural approach source, and Choose Life program that funds relief for youth at risk of suicide.
Superior Greenstone District School Board has put together a wide variety of content for their students and staff.
“When you have a larger Indigenous population within your school district, it really important for students to see themselves reflect within their school,” said Nicole Morden-Cormier, director of education. We have a commitment to all of our students to make sure they have a strong sense of belonging; therefore, students much see their history and their culture reflect in the school board. Superior Greenstone is really committed to learning the truth of the past. Truth is a critical part of reconciliation. As a group, we are honouring this month by engaging in a large number of learning opportunities for students and staff. We plan on working alongside our community partners, and partners from First Nation communities.”
Indigenous peoples continue to inspire us with their strength, resiliency and steadfast commitment to Indigenous values, often in the face of incredible challenges. The colonization of what is now known as Canada is rooted in the history of First Nations people.
First Nation stories are everywhere, but it is up to the public to lesson and engage.
The tragic impact of the Residential School system on Survivors, and their families and communities, is still an ongoing investigation and one the public cannot ignore.
The Ministry of Indigenous Affairs encourages all Ontarians to make use of the many available online resources and participate in events and activities to learn more about and celebrate the diverse cultures and heritage of Indigenous peoples that contribute to making Ontario a great place to live.
By deepening our collective understanding and appreciation of Indigenous histories, strengths, and contributions, we can all actively embrace the journey towards advancing the process of reconciliation.
For additional resources on the history of First Nations People:
- Celebrating National Indigenous History Month
- Learn more about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada
- Read Books by Indigenous Authors
- Discover Indigenous Culture along the TransCanada Trail
- Treaties Teaching and Learning Resources
- Indigenous History Month 2022 – Teaching History & Reconciliation
- Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program
- Talk4Healing – a culturally grounded helpline for Indigenous women
- Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous Peoples
