Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
Celebrate National Aboriginal History Month This June
Participate in Local Events to Learn about Ontario's Indigenous History
Every June, Canadians are invited to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous people in Canada by taking part in National Aboriginal History Month events and festivities.
Declared in 2009, National Aboriginal History Month is a time to acknowledge the role Indigenous peoples played in the development of Canada, to honour Indigenous heritage and to celebrate Indigenous cultures. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the strength of present day First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities, and their hopes for the future.
Celebrating National Aboriginal History Month supports Ontario's Statement of Commitment and Reconciliation, delivered on May 30, 2016 in the Ontario Legislature. National Aboriginal History Month events invite us to learn more about Indigenous history, perspectives and culture, and help us build strong relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding. For Ontario, this is the foundation for lasting reconciliation.
You can learn more about Indigenous history, cultures and perspectives by attending National Aboriginal History Month events happening across Ontario, such as:
- Aundeck Omni Kaning Annual Traditional Pow Wow, June 4-5, Aundeck Omni Kaning Park and Campground, near Little Current, Manitoulin Island
- Barrie Native Friendship Centre 27th Gathering Pow Wow, Gshkozowin - Awakening to our Culture, June 11-12, Spring Water Provincial Park, Minesing
- Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival, June 17-19 Vincent Massey Park, Ottawa
- Niagara Falls Illumination, June 21, Niagara Falls
- Native Canadian Centre of Toronto Celebrates Aboriginal History Month, June 23, presented by the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Yonge - Dundas Square, Toronto
Celebrating and supporting Indigenous culture is one of many steps on Ontario's journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government's commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.
Quick Facts:
- First proposed by Elijah Harper in 1995, June was declared National Aboriginal History Month in Canada in 2009.
- The Truth and Reconciliation Report's Calls to Action included many recommendations to bolster public education on the legacy of residential schools, treaties, Indigenous rights, cultural competency, human rights and racism.
- Ontario designated the first week of November as Treaties Recognition Week to promote public education and awareness about treaties and treaty relationships
Background Information:
Additional Resources:
Quotes:
"I am excited to once again take part in National Aboriginal History Month celebrations. This month I hope we can continue to learn from our past and reflect on the next chapter of Canadian history - one that should be defined by reconciliation with Indigenous people."
— David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
Media Contacts:
Flavia Mussio
416-314-9455
flavia.mussio@ontario.ca
Polina Osmerkina
Minister's Office
416-314-2529
polina.osmerkina@ontario.ca
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