June: National Indigenous History Month & National Indigenous Peoples Day

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

This is a time to recognize the rich histories, heritage, cultures, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. We honour the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues today.

This month and day are opportunities to learn about the cultural diversity of Indigenous communities and promotes understanding across all communities.

Scroll down to learn about local events and resources.

Events:

Contact us to share your own event DEIJ@chatham-kent.ca

All events are open to everyone.

Friday, June 19, 5:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

Deshkan Ziibi, 495 King St. W., Chatham (Bleak House Lawn)

Join for a Sunrise Ceremony, light breakfast and networking, Opening, and Indigenous Craft Vendors Market & CK Partner Information Booths. Free strawberries, ice cream, and teachings.

Supported by Ska:Na Family Learning Centre, Maawnjidimi Indigenous Network, Jennen Strawberry Farm, Women's Equity Business, The Bleak House, and 7 Generations Indigenous Cultural Centre.

Saturday, June 20, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Indigenous History in Canada

Spririt and LIfe Centre, 184 Welling St. W, Chatham

Presentation by Tesa Fiddler, Kitchinuhmaykoosib Inninuwug & Onigaming First Nation and Sharon Giroux, M'Chigeeng First Nation.

Hosted by the Chatham Catholic Family of Parishes and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.

Free Will offering accepted.

Learn more or register online. Or call 519-352-8530.

Month-Long

Chatham-Kent Public Library Programming

June Movies

Every Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 PM. In recognition of National Indigenous History Month CK Public Library will showcase powerful storytelling brought to life by Indigenous Directors, Producers, and Actors. Registration not required. A $2.00 donation is suggested at the door. Learn more on the CK Public Library website.

Recommended Reads

Visit Chatham-Kent Public Library on Facebook or Instagram for reading recommendations with Indigenous authors and illustrators.

Resources:

Learn about local First Nations, important terminology, cultural identities, regional and cultural differences, local Treaties and historical relationships, and important principles and values through the resource A Road to Understanding Indigenous Culture.

Developed through collaboration with local Indigenous Knowledge Holders with the goal of fostering better understanding and connection with each other.

Find the electronic resource on the Living CK website. Hard copies of the resource are available at CK Public Library branches.

Learn about National Indigenous History Month, National Indigenous Peoples Day, the images in the banner above and find resources to continue learning on the government of Canada's website.