National indigenous History MONTH
ARPA would like to acknowledge the First Nations, the Métis, and all of the people across Alberta who share a history and a deep connection with this land. We dedicate ourselves to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.
Webinars
ARPA Webinars:
Watch the "Importance of Indigenous Elders" to learn how the recreation and parks sector can support the Elders, the impacts of colonization, and how viewers can work in collaboration as allies with Indigenous communities.
Watch the "Traditional Ways of Making Relations Panel" to listen as panelists share their key successes/stories in building relationships with individuals, communities, and organizations, to promote wellness and community connections
Watch the "Grandmother's Circle on Cultural Safety & A Woman's Voice film screening" to learn about the importance of ensuring cultural safety for all in recreation and parks settings as well as the MMIWG2S movement. Hear from our friend and Partner Sandra Sutter, and 4 multi-nation Elders from Treaty 7 who formed the Grandmothers’ Circle.
Other Webinars:
Attend a Virtual Gathering on The Meaning of Round Dance hosted by the University of Calgary on June 14th from 12 - 1:30 p.m. - register here
Attend a Virtual Webinar on Campfire Chats: Buffalo Treaty on June 21st from 3:00pm to 4:00pm! Hosted by the University of Calgary and moderated by Elder, Dr. Reg Crowshoe - register here
Activities
ARPA Resources:
Hear and learn from Elders and Indigenous communities on a number of topics by visiting ARPA's Indigenous Oral Knowledge Hub
Learn about the role reconciliation has to play in parks and recreation settings by reading ARPA's Indigenous Awareness & Engagement Toolkit
June 21st - National Indigenous Peoples Day:
Explore what's happening in your communities to celebrate and recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day!
2022 NIHM Events around Alberta - Communities include: City of Edmonton, City of Calgary, Enoch Cree Nation, Fort Macleod, Lethbridge, and Milk River
Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary (June 20-25, 2022)
Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary Round Dance from 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Campfire Chats: Buffalo Treaty from 3:00 to 4:30pm hosted by the University of Calgary, moderated by Elder, Dr. Reg Crowshoe - register here
Other Activities:
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples in Canada Learning and Activity Guide
Learn how to make Bannock! courtesy of Iiyika’kimaat YouthGroup at Trellis Calgary
Visit Métis Crossing in Smoky Lake, AB for their interpretive programs
Pow wow Cardio courtesy of Notorious Cree
June 4th: Sacred Bundles Unborn Book Launch and Art Exhibit (University of Calgary)
June 8th: Understanding Indigenous Cultural Gatherings and Social Dances (University of Calgary)
what our partners are doing
Click the links to access:
June 21st:
Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary Round Dance from 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Campfire Chats: Buffalo Treaty from 3:00 to 4:30pm hosted by the University of Calgary, moderated by Elder, Dr. Reg Crowshoe - register here
Podcast: Keeping it Riel with MNA - Métis Harvesting - Craig Letendre
Indigenous Traditional Food Systems
ARPA’s Communities ChooseWell program is excited to remind you about the Healthy Eating in Recreation Settings' (HERS) eCourse: "Indigenous Traditional Food Systems". This FREE module provides an introductory look into Indigenous Traditional Food Systems within Alberta. Learn from Elders and Indigenous communities across the province about why returning to a Traditional Food System is important, how communities are returning to it and what role you can play in supporting Traditional Food Systems. (Time: 1-1.5 hours)
What is National Indigenous History Month (NIHM)?
In June, Canadians celebrate National Indigenous History Month to honour the history, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is also an opportunity to recognize the strength of present-day Indigenous communities.
National Indigenous History Month is a time for learning about, appreciating and acknowledging the contributions First Nations, Inuit and Métis people have made in shaping Canada.
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance and sacred nature of cultural ceremonies and celebrations that usually occur during this time. While celebrations and events for National Indigenous History Month may be different this year than those in the past, we can still share and learn from stories, traditions and culture in new ways that keep us together and connected.
What is National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD)?
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The Canadian Constitution recognizes these three groups as Aboriginal peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples.
Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.
In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.
What led to the creation of National Indigenous Peoples Day?
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:
in 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood (now the Assembly of First Nations) called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day
in 1995, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples
also in 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day
On June 21, 2017, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing the intention to rename this day National Indigenous Peoples Day.