June 1st, 2021

National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day offer important opportunities to recognize the cultural diversity and distinct contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples who have been silenced and ignored in the formation of what we now call Canada.

We know that this work must extend beyond a day or a month. Incorporating learning about Indigenous ways of knowing, hosting interactive events, and inviting Indigenous voices into the classroom are all ways we can prioritize the perspectives of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples that have been marginalized. Throughout June 2021, WRDSB educators will be supported with daily resources to help them incorporate this learning into their teaching, with a focus on celebrating Indigenous champions of the past, present, and future.

National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, in recognition of the strength, long history, deep traditional knowledge, and enduring presence of Indigenous Nations across the land.

Learn more about how we’re marking National Indigenous History Month at www.WRDSB.ca/IndigenousHistoryMonth.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

National Indigenous Peoples Day falls on June 21st each year. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21 as National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly known as National Aboriginal Day) because of the cultural significance of the summer solstice and the day with the longest period of daylight.

Learn more about how we’re marking National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Get Involved

National Indigenous Peoples Day – Government of Canada

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the cultural diversity of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples by participating in the many activities happening across Canada.

Learn more on the Government of Canada website.

Indigenous Day Live – APTN

This year’s production of APTN Indigenous Day Live (IDL) has been adapted to feature many of Turtle Island’s established and emerging Indigenous artists in a new and creative way. In celebration of the 25th National Indigenous Peoples Day, APTN invites you to tune in to the IDL festivities on June 20, 2021.

#IndigenousReads

#IndigenousReads encourages reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples through sharing literature written by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

Go to The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund website for more upcoming events.

Resources for Caregivers and Students

The Indigenous Education Branch has provided a variety of resources to support both students and their families.

Help us celebrate Indigenous History Month month. You can share your stories and pictures with us on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #IndigenousWRDSB.