National Indigenous Peoples Day

Posted on Tuesday, 21 June 2022 under Stories

National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day to recognize, celebrate, honour, and learn about the rich and diverse cultures and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

For folks who are settlers and non-Indigenous, we encourage you to spend time today learning about the land that you are on and the histories of Indigenous peoples in the area you live. There are numerous online resources for non-Indigenous community members to learn more about the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures in the colonial borders of British Columbia and across what is referred to as Canada.

Below is a list of just a few of the many resources that are available online. We encourage you to do your own research beyond this day and month.

As a majority-white organization working in the food movement, we humbly recognize the uncomfortable truth that we have been complicit in the systematic oppression of Indigenous food systems and Indigenous food leaders. We are actively seeking ways to learn from and be proactive allies to the Indigenous peoples who our work intersects with and whose land we live and work on.

Learn More

Did you know that about half of First People’s languages in Canada are spoken in BC?

The First Peoples’ Cultural Council’s virtual map of BC Indigenous territories showcases the 204 First Nations communities and Indigenous languages spoken across the province.

Learn whose traditional land you reside and work on through Native Land’s virtual map.

Read important reports:

Listen to Indigenous podcasts:

Watch Indigenous-made films:

Redistribute funds to support Indigenous initiatives, groups, communities, and artists.

National Indigenous Peoples Day History

In 1982, the Assembly of First Nations called for the creation of a national day of solidarity.

In 1995, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples titled, the Sacred Assembly, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples.

In 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the creation of a National First Peoples Day.

In 1996, National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly, National Aboriginal Day) was announced by then Governor General of Canada, Romeo LeBlanc, as a result of statements made by and consultations with various Indigenous groups.