June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day which coincides with the summer solstice – the longest day of the year and a day that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous Peoples.
June 21 is a day to honour and to celebrate the rich and diverse histories, cultures, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples. These groups are not homogenous – they include more than 600 First Nations, 51 Inuit communities spread across the north, over 70 distinct languages, and many different cultural and spiritual traditions.
As we turn our collective focus on how to strengthen Canada in response to threats from the US, let us not forget that the land we occupy, the land we now call Canada, is the land of Indigenous peoples. This land is not just a place where people live, work, and play – it is a land that Indigenous Peoples have had and continue to have a deep spiritual connection to.
In our celebrations on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we must also reflect on the legacy of colonialism and take steps towards reconciliation.
CEIU encourages our members to commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, by learning, reflecting, and participating in events in your community.
Resources
Empowering Union Activists: 5 Strategies to Advance Indigenous Rights and Justice
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