Kawartha Lakes recognizes the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous People’s Day

Kawartha Lakes –  On June 21, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day to recognize and celebrate the traditions, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in our communities.

National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

Established in 1996, National Indigenous Peoples Day is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the diverse heritage of Indigenous peoples and to commit to learning more about their histories and ongoing contributions to our shared future.

Learn and Reflect: Educational Resources

For anyone who wishes to learn more, check out the Indigenous Resources page on the Kawartha Lakes Library website to find library materials for all ages. More resources from Indigenous organizations are listed below.

First Nations

• Learn about the Williams Treaty on Trent University’s Indigenous Research Portal.
• Curve Lake Cultural Centre: Looking to attend an event? Curve Lake Cultural Centre outlines their Pow Wow Schedule, etiquette for attendance and what to expect at the grounds.
• Mississauga Nation: Check out language materials, history, and current projects.
• Anishinabek Nation: Take a peek at a variety of education resources created by The Anishinabek Nation, the oldest political organization in Ontario. For recommended readings, check out their Resources and Learning Page
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: Learn about the history of Residential Schools and stay current on the United Nations Declaration on the Right of Indigenous Peoples.
• Tribal Trade: If you have questions, they have answers.  Read though a comprehensive FAQ that covers topics from smudging to allyship, cultural appropriation to Truth and Reconciliation.
• Assembly of First Nations (AFN): Offers policy and advocacy materials, toolkits, and updates on Indigenous rights and governance.

Métis

• Métis Nation of Ontario: The government of Métis citizens and communities within Ontario.
• Métis National Council: The Métis National Council is a representative body of the Métis people.
• Download Métis Nation Teaching Resources: Recommended learning resources from the Métis National Council.

Inuit

• Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami: The national representational organization protecting and advancing the rights and interests of Inuit in Canada.
• Inuit Circumpolar Council: The ICC in Canada is a non-profit organization led by elected leaders in Inuvialuit, Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, and Nunavut. They have a number of National and International resources. Their Kids page is filled with educational activities for young learners, complete with fun facts and even an introduction to Inuktut!
• Tungasuvvingat Inuit: An informative website for Ontarians. This website walks readers through teachings, events, and resources. It also shares the stories of Inuit people living in Ontario. Tungasuvvingat Inuit is an Inuit-specific urban services provider that offers community supports for Inuit of all ages.

The City of Kawartha Lakes respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Mississauga lands and the traditional territory covered by the Williams Treaties.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work here and we thank all the generations of people who have taken care of this land for thousands of years. We recognize and deeply appreciate their historic connection to this place. We also recognize the contributions of Métis people in shaping and strengthening this community.

We encourage all residents to participate, reflect, and learn about Indigenous culture and contributions, not just on June 21, but throughout the year.