June 21 is summer solstice, the longest day of the year and a traditional time of celebration and ceremony for many Indigenous communities in Canada. It is also National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The recognition of this day is the result of many years of advocacy. This includes a call in 1982 from the National Indian Brotherhood, (now the Assembly of First Nations) for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day and a 1995 recommendation from the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples for the designation of a National First Peoples Day.
Aboriginal Legal Services will be closed on June 21 so that our staff can participate in events across the province. Examples include:
- The Native Canadian Center of Toronto is hosting events such as story-telling, dancing and a fashion show at Harbourfront Center in Toronto from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. More information is available here: https://ncct.on.ca/indigenous-day-june-21st-2023/
- In Brantford, the Woodland Cultural Centre is hosting activities including on June 23 from 11:00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. There will be traditional dance and sports, vendors and artists and more. Their website is: https://woodlandculturalcentre.ca/upcoming-events/
- In Ottawa at Indigenous Experiences’ Mādahòkì Farm the Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival will run June 21 – 23 and includes creative workshops and a movie night. Here is the website: https://ottawatourism.ca/en/see-and-do/ottawa-summer-solstice-indigenous-festival
The month of June is designated National Indigenous History Month. Schools, libraries, community centers, as well as national and provincial parks, will be highlighting books, movies, art and performances by Indigenous artists and opportunities to learn about Indigenous history. Check out your local listings for events.
Emily Hill
Senior Staff Lawyer