National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day for all of us to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. It happens every year on June 21.
We all live on Indigenous land. Indigenous peoples have always had a relationship with this land. Now that Canada exists, we are all part of treaties with rights and responsibilities. The shared history of this land since the start of colonization has included trying to harm Indigenous peoples culture, knowledge, achievements and contributions. National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day to take space back and welcome everyone to learn and celebrate together.
It’s also a chance to gather and have fun as a community. APTN will be hosting their annual Indigenous Day Live party at the Forks (and on TV) on Saturday June 23, 2018.
While not currently a national stat holiday, there is a private members bill before Parliament, Bill C-369, to make this day a holiday. You can show your support by letting your member of parliament know you’d like to see this happen.
