The day coincides with the summer solstice — the longest day of the year — and holds deep cultural significance for many Indigenous groups. It’s the culmination of Indigenous Peoples Month, which is observed every June.
In Ottawa, a ceremony was hosted by Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones to mark the 25th anniversary of the unveiling of the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument.
Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour will take part in a ceremony hosted by Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones to mark the 25th anniversary of the unveiling of the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa.
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty will attend the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival in Ottawa, which features a competition powwow, culinary experiences and educational programming.
In a statement, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said the day must also be one of accountability.
“Reconciliation cannot be accomplished by announcements and promises,” she wrote.
“It is achieved through quality schools for First Nations children, safe housing for First Nations families, clean drinking water for First Nations communities, and First Nations exercising their inherent rights to govern their lands, waters, and futures.”
The day is being marked in different ways in communities across the country.
Métis National Council president Victoria Pruden laid a wreath at the monument, and also attended the Rhythms of the Homeland event in Ottawa’s Minto Park, a celebration of Métis food, music and dance.
Wanuskewin Heritage Park near Saskatoon hosted a National Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration with traditional dancing, drum performances and storytelling.
At Ambleside Park in Vancouver, there was an event with live music, canoe activities and a traditional salmon dinner cooked over an open fire.
National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, formerly National Aboriginal Day, was proclaimed in 1996 by Gov. Gen. Romeo LeBlanc after years of advocacy from Indigenous groups.
— With files from The Canadian Press.
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