June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, where we celebrate and honour the contributions and cultures of Indigenous Peoples across Canada. This month provides us with an opportunity to learn about Indigenous traditions, languages, arts and experiences to work towards transformative change.
At ACFO-ACAF, we celebrate this month by seeking out educational resources to learn more about the rich diversity of Indigenous peoples and how their contributions have shaped our culture. We:
We encourage our members to support Indigenous-led businesses and organizations, as well as consult the resources below, that provide insight into Indigenous voices :
September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, was established in response to the 80th call of action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. As stated in the calls to action report, this day is to, “honour survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”
This day applies to all ACFO-ACAF members as “one additional day when proclaimed by an act of Parliament as a national holiday” and is reflected in each classification’s collective agreement:
As we celebrate National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Days, we must strive to be agents of change and amplify Indigenous voices in our community.