National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21 has been recognized by the Government of Canada since 1996. Indigenous peoples across Canada have been celebrating this day since time immemorial. June 21 is the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, traditionally, this day was a day where Indigenous peoples would gather in their territory and renew old friendships, create new relationships, dance, sing, drum, celebrate, eat, share stories, trade items and conduct business.
This year, CFN is excited to be a part of this Celebration. On behalf of CFN’s Board of Directors and staff we salute all Indigenous Peoples across Canada. It is the organization’s hope that through its work with Indigenous and Newcomer communities, we can build stronger relationships through better understanding of our rich and shared histories.
CFN understands that this is a sacred responsibility that requires the creation of a thoughtful, kind, open space where we can all learn together. This space is where the Indigenous Education Program and its materials will be shared for all to learn together and from each other. This responsibility also requires the provision of education opportunities to all community members to be informed in the most accurate manner as possible. This is also why CFN is very pleased to officially announce Tina Kinnee-Brown of Treaty 11 territory as our new Indigenous Education Coordinator. With Tina now leading the program, her in-depth understating of Indigenous protocol and cultural knowledge will surely take the already successful program to new heights.
From June 17 to June 21, 2020 educational resources will be made available on daily basis on our website. This is an excellent way to learn at your own pace, while still having the support in knowing that your fellow teammates/community members are also learning.
CFN looks forward to sharing the rich cultures of Indigenous Canadians from across Turtle Island and having an opportunity to learn together. Thank you for walking with us on this learning journey.
Thursday June 18, 2020 Indigenous Education Materials
Links to Resources:
Calgary Indigenous Day Celebrations. Perhaps I will see you there!!
Written materials from Indigenous authors:
A free E-book, Written by Indigenous author Bev Sellers. Price Paid is a well written, concise look at the myths and misconceptions that many Canadians have been taught, about Indigenous peoples and their communities.