The Public and Private Workers of Canada acknowledges National Indigenous Peoples Day on Sunday, June 21, 2020. This is a day of celebration for all Canadians to recognize and honour the achievements, history and rich cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.
National Indigenous Peoples Day, previously National Aboriginal Day, was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, declaring June 21 of each year as National Aboriginal Day. This was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups.
June 21, the summer solstice, was chosen because many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage for generations on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.
In June 2009, the month of June was first instituted as National Indigenous History Month as a way to educate, connect and promote reconciliation in Canada.
Let’s celebrate by learning more about Indigenous people and their important place within the fabric of Canada and their ongoing contributions.
Check out the resources below:
Virtual National Indigenous Peoples Day Events
Royal Roads University National Indigenous Peoples Day 2020 Celebration Video
Starting on Friday, June 19, 2020
Langley – National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Starting on Saturday, June 20, 2020
Indigenous Hall Virtual Tour
Take a virtual tour of the We Are Kwantlen exhibit via Museum of Surrey
Books
‘Two houses half buried in sand’ by Beryl Cryer
‘The Terror of the Coast’ by Chris Arnett
