Posted on: June 3, 2024
We are now quickly approaching the summer solstice on June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day. A time of renewal, celebration, and spiritual reflection that reinforces the values of interconnectedness, respect, and harmony. This month, let's take time for intentional learning, celebration and conversations on the territories where we all live, work and play.
While this day was first nationally recognized in 1996, Indigenous peoples and communities have been honouring their culture and heritage for generations, traditionally in alignment with the longest day of the year.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is an important reminder and opportunity to pause from the business of the day to day and celebrate the vast and rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the country.
In honour of all Indigenous Island Health staff and Indigenous partners and communities, we encourage each of you to learn more about the local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities in your geographic regions.
Reflect on the histories, people and Nations of the lands Island Health occupies and the territory you reside on. Consider partnering with a local Nation, Friendship Centre or Métis Association to plan a National Indigenous Peoples Day event at your care sites that showcases the diversity in culture, language, arts, traditional foods and medicines, healing practices, and more.
Learn more about what it means to be an ally and why this is so important. Explore your commitment to cultural humility. And seek out opportunities to participate in local celebrations. Please support your staff to attend virtual and in-person events.
We will share articles throughout June (National Indigenous History Month in Canada) that speak to our Island cultural families: The Métis, Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka'wakw will be highlighted in story and resources in The Weekly leading up to June 21.
While this is a nationally recognized day of celebration to lift up Indigenous people and cultures, reconciliation remains both an ongoing endeavor and responsibility. Colonialism still has lasting impacts on relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and governments. Finding meaningful opportunities to personally engage and build relationship is one step in the direction of un-doing that harm. The importance of Indigenous Peoples Month is multifaceted, encompassing cultural recognition, education, reconciliation, and advocacy for rights and justice.
Kleco Kleco.
~ Dawn Thomas, Aa ap waa iik, Vice President, Indigenous Health & Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
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National Indigenous Peoples Day Events: June 21, 2024
- Cowichan Tribes – Si'em Lelum Gymnasium: National Indigenous Peoples Day
- Victoria - Royal Roads: National Indigenous Peoples Day
- Courtney – Comox Valley, Exhibition Grounds: National Indigenous Peoples Day
- FNHA: 130 Ways to Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day
Please share additional events that are taking place in your region in the comments below.