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June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

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Historically, many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people already had celebrations around the first day of summer. So, the Government of Canada decided this was a good time to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

June 21st coincides with the summer solstice (the longest day of the year).

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On June 21st, we use this day as an opportunity to recognize, celebrate and honour the amazing contributions, diversity and heritage of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.

1982

1995

1996

2017

Assembly of First Nations calls for the National Aboriginal Solidarity Day to be formed.

The Sacred Assembly suggests a celebration in honour of Indigenous peoples and The Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples suggests National First Peoples Day.

Roméo-Adrien LeBlanc, Governor General of Canada, declares June 21st National Aboriginal Day.

National Aboriginal Day is renamed, National Indigenous Peoples Day.

It’s been a long process in settling on a name that honours Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit... But in 2017, the name was officially changed to what it is now.

Why Do We Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day?

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Métis flag

The Canadian Constitution recognizes three distinct groups as Indigenous: First Nations, Métis and Inuit. Their culture and histories are unique to each group. It is very important that we both recognize and celebrate that.

Métis flag

Nunavut Flag

Nunavut Flag

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How Diverse Are We Talking?

Just as we acknowledge that Europeans come from countries such as England, Portugal and Greece, or that the continent of Africa is made up of 54 distinct nations such as Nigeria, Madagascar, Morocco and Egypt, we need to understand First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in a similar fashion.

Here are some of the different nations:

Onondaga

Yellowknives (band)

Netsilingmiut (Netsilik Inuit)

Tseshaht (Sheshaht)

Nuu-chah-nulth

Inuit

Lilwat (Lillooet)

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The Indigenous People of Canada make up over 630 First Nations communities, which includes more than 50 nations and 50 distinct language groups. Here are some different ways Indigenous people greet each other in Canada:

Stoney:

Hello, how are you?

Inuktitut:

Eastern Cree:

Hello

Michif:

Saulteaux:

Hello

Hello

Hello, how are you?

Inuit:

Good Morning

Blackfoot:

Hello, how are you?

Cree:

Hello, how are you?

Tsuut’ina Nation (Dene):

Hello, how are you?

Aba wathtech do ken yau

Halu

Wachiyeh

Taanishi

Aaniin?

Ukkaakuut

Oki, Tsa niita’pii?

Tansi or Dansi

Danit’ada

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How Do We Celebrate on National Indigenous Peoples Day?

This day is a time to celebrate with friends, family and your community. The day is marked with ceremonies, celebrations, parades, cultural performances, arts and crafts activities, displays, and recognition awards for Indigenous people.

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Here Are Some Other Ways You Could Celebrate This Meaningful Day:

  1. Research local listings of National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations. Plan to attend with friends and family.
  2. Spend the day learning about the Indigenous history of where you live.
  3. Learn some greetings in the Indigenous language of where you live.
  4. Seek out an Indigenous restaurant or food truck.
  5. Listen to music created by Indigenous musicians.
  6. Visit an art gallery that features Indigenous art.
  7. Read a book by an Indigenous author.
  8. Watch a movie by an Indigenous director.
  9. Fill in a Personal or Professional Pledge of Reconciliation and discuss with family and friends.
  10. Find some Indigenous recipes and try to make a dessert or meal with family members.

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