National Indigenous Peoples Day

National Indigenous Peoples Day is June 21.

At Parkland School Division, we appreciate all cultures and accept everyone with an open heart and mind. We respect the heritage and diversity of Indigenous Peoples and value partnerships with Indigenous groups and communities in efforts to progress toward truth and reconciliation.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is an annual observance that is a part of National Indigenous History Month and is a special day to celebrate and recognize the history, culture and experiences of Indigenous Peoples. Throughout the month, students have been learning about Indigenous history and culture. Learning and celebration will continue on June 21 as students and staff participate in lessons and activities to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Peoples. Families can also celebrate by taking part in local events (see below).

Local events

• Take part in the grand opening of the Skydancer Indigenous Cultural Centre in Spruce Grove (June 21 from 3-6pm at Rotary Centennial Park, 99 Campsite Road). There will be demonstrations, food, a teepee display, live music and more.
• For events in Edmonton, visit the City's Indigenous History Month web page.
• For events across Alberta, visit the Province's National Indigenous History Month web page.

About National Indigenous Peoples Day

For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on June 21 or around that time of year because of the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.

National Aboriginal Day, now National Indigenous Peoples Day, was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day. This was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups:

• In 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day;
• In 1995, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples; and,
• In 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day.

For more information contact:
Parkland School Division
Phone: 780-963-4010
Email: DivisionOffice@psd.ca