National Indigenous Peoples Day

Next Friday, June 21st, is National Indigenous Peoples Day and there are a variety of events happening from now until next weekend in honour of the day. There's an indigenous art market running until this Sunday; Kitchener Public Library is showing the movie Indian Horse; there's a Solstice Sunrise Ceremony; and many more events and opportunities to learn more.

Wellbeing Waterloo recently shared the following information about National Indigenous Peoples Day: "June 21st – the summer solstice and longest day of the year – marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, started in 1996 by the Governor General of Canada.
The day celebrates the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people of Canada. It also serves as a reconciliation measure to recognize the history of Canada’s first peoples and is one of the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (80).
Events are held in observance of National Indigenous Peoples Day across the nation. Some First Nations, Inuit and Métis people choose to take the day off as a holiday. Many host public events that include feasts, dances, drumming circles, sunrise ceremonies, concerts and movie screenings."

Perhaps you'll join me this week in taking some time to become familiar with the Truth and Reconciliation 'Calls to Action' as well as the recently released Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Let's reflect on actions each of us can take in response to these important documents.  #365ofgoodWR