National Indigenous History Month is recognized annually across Canada for the month of June.
“North Grenville’s Municipal Council would like to take this opportunity to recognize the unique heritage, cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Ontario and Canada,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford.
Over the past few years, and particularly this past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the social, health, and economic disparities of Indigenous peoples.
This month is an opportunity for Canadians to participate in virtual activities to engage with, and deepen our understanding of, Indigenous peoples’ distinct histories, customs, spiritualities, and languages.
This year’s activities will be shadowed by the tragic discovery of the mass grave of 215 Indigenous children on the site of the former Kamloops Residential school in British Columbia.
“This heartbreaking discovery is a painful reminder that the impacts of residential schools are still felt today,” said Councillor Kristin Strackerjan.
“It is fitting that this year, National Indigenous History Month is dedicated to the missing children, the families left behind and the survivors of residential schools,” added Councillor Strackerjan.
“I encourage North Grenville residents to honour these children and their families by deepening our collective understanding of the inter-generational trauma inflicted by residential schools and reflect on the inequality and systemic racism that many Indigenous peoples continue to experience today,” reflected Mayor Peckford.
Learn more about National Indigenous History Month with these resources:
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) provided those directly or indirectly affected by the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools system with an opportunity to share their stories and experiences. Learn more including the Commission’s 94 Calls to Action: http://www.trc.ca/index-main.html
- National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: Learn about the independent national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/
- #IndigenousReads: The #IndigenousReads campaign encourages reconciliation by increasing Canadians’ understanding of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures and history. https://www.cbc.ca/books/108-indigenous-writers-to-read-as-recommended-by-you-1.4197475
