submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG
Mayor Nancy Peckford issued the following statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day:
The Municipality of North Grenville recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st, a day to celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
North Grenville’s Municipal Council encouraged residents to take this opportunity to recognize and learn more about the diverse heritage, cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Ontario and Canada.
Our country was very much shaped by the first peoples who were here for thousands of years before Canada was established, and whose practices and traditions live on despite tremendous adversity.
For as far back as oral histories can tell us, Indigenous Peoples around the world have marked the summer and winter solstices in ceremony, ritual, and celebration. Here in North America, or on Turtle Island, most Indigenous communities mark the longest day of the year by reflecting on all the good things in our lives and by giving thanks for all that the earth has shared with us.
It is also a moment to recognize and celebrate the remarkable resilience and strength of indigenous cultures and communities throughout Canada.
As we continue along the path of reconciliation, it’s important to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day and acknowledge the obstacles and intergenerational trauma Indigenous Peoples have endured, such as the tragic impact that the residential school system has had on survivors and their families and communities.
National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly known as National Aboriginal Day) was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation 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.
For more information, visit the North Grenville website at: www.northgrenville.ca/community-and-culture/community-initiatives/truth-and-reconciliation
