North Grenville Recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day

NORTH GRENVILLE, ON – The Municipality of North Grenville recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, 2022, a day to celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

National Indigenous History Month is recognized annually across Canada in the month of June.

“North Grenville’s Municipal Council encourages 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,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “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 the path along reconciliation, it’s important to mark National Indigenous People’s Day and acknowledge the obstacles and intergenerational trauma Indigenous Peoples have endured, such as the tragic impact the residential school system has had on survivors and their families and communities,” added Mayor Peckford.

“Today is an opportunity to honour Indigenous Peoples’ culture and heritage while reflecting on history. National Indigenous Peoples’ Day is also about celebration, a chance for joy and laughter in and amongst the challenges, and recognition can be as simple as a search online for Indigenous stories, music or art. There are many resources that anyone can access throughout the year to learn about the outstanding achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, and today is a reminder to seek them out,” added Councillor Kristin Strackerjan.

By deepening our understanding of Indigenous history and culture, we will collectively advance the process of reconciliation.

National Aboriginal Day (now National Indigenous Peoples 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.

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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/  

CBC put together a compilation of Indigenous arts and cultural resources including books, to movies and documentaries, events and more. Click the link HERE.

Celebrating National Indigenous History Month: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512

Indigenous History Month 2022 – Downie & Wenjack Fund: https://downiewenjack.ca/indigenous-history-month-2022/

#IndigenousReads - Read Books by Indigenous Authors

North Grenville Public Library has a variety of books to learn more about Indigenous History - including many written by Canadian Indigenous Authors.

For more Information Contact:
Jill Sturdy, Corporate Media Relations Officer
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613-258-9569 ext. 168

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