Today marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, now recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day. In 1996, Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, proclaimed June 21 as National Aboriginal Day. This designation was the result of extensive consultations and support from various Indigenous groups. On June 21, 2017, the Prime Minister announced the intention to rename this day to National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Designated days like NIPD serve to remind us of our history and to celebrate our present. For many, this day will be observed differently. Some may participate in ceremonies or community events, while others may take a moment to reflect on its significance. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage education for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people; the more we know about our past, the brighter our futures can be. By learning from each other’s diverse backgrounds and experiences, we become better neighbors and more compassionate individuals.

This month, members of council and staff have been engaged with community groups and youth to share and participate in learning opportunities.  It is wonderful to see how excited and eager our young people are to learn, and we are so grateful to our educators and knowledge keepers for supporting them.

We are surrounded with writers, artists and entrepreneurs, folks that are telling our stories and creating economic growth.  We have so much to celebrate and be proud of.

To celebrate NIPD, numerous events will take place all around us, starting with sunrise ceremonies and continuing with food, local crafts, and family gatherings throughout the day. May you be inspired and curious; take time to have conversations with each other.  When we respectfully listen and share, we grow stronger for brighter tomorrow.