June 21 National Indigenous Day

What is National Indigenous Day?

National Indigenous Day is a time for all Canadians to recognize the unique heritage, the diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Proclaimed by the Governor General in 1996, National Indigenous Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the unique achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in fields as diverse as agriculture, the environment, business and the arts.

June 21^st was chosen for National Indigenous Day because it is also the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day. National Indigenous Peoples Day (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)

This year, in honour of the day, we would like to recognize the shared traditional territories of the Coast Salish, and Nuu-chah-nulth peoples to the West Coast, where we live on the South Island. National Indigenous Day is a phrase we use through culturally responsive education and the work we do with local First Nations daily.

We recognize those territories of the First Nations, and thank each Nation for welcoming us to the beauty of this land, sea and sky.

Thank you                                     English
Hych’ka                                         Coast Salish
Kleco Kleco                                   Nuu-chah-nulth
Gilakasla                                        Kwakwaka’wakw
Marsee                                           Métis