National Indigenous Peoples Day is June 21
National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated annually in Canada on June 21, coincides with the summer solstice and is a special “day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples…For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.” (Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada).
To recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day at UPEI, Dr. Corinne Chappell, Advisor on Indigenous Affairs, invites you to a “Lunch and Learn” on Friday, June 19, from 12:00–1:30 pm in the Quad outside the Tipi. (In the event of rain, the session will be held inside the Tipi.) Join us for an anonymous Q&A session—submit your questions in the question box and we’ll take time to answer anything you may have been hesitant to ask. This is an opportunity to learn together. Bring your lunch and blueberry cake will be provided for dessert.
On Sunday, June 21, the Native Council of PEI will host National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations at Confederation Landing Park from 11:00 am–4:00 pm. All are welcome.
June is also National Indigenous History Month. Visit UPEI’s Teaching and Learning Centre web pages for Indigenous Teaching Resources and these Indigenous History Resources, which prompt discussion and engagement, and provide educational opportunities which go beyond surface-level awareness to foster genuine understanding of complex issues like land rights, sovereignty, and the ongoing impacts of colonization.
UPEI’s Robertson Library has developed an Indigenous Resources Guide that includes articles, books, documents, websites, and other resources related to research about Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Also, you can learn about the Elders and scholars at UPEI on the upei.ca website or access resources about Mi’kmaq culture, traditions, and language on the L’nuey website.
The Government of Canada's Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada website has additional resources which explore the history, languages, cultures, and experiences of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
