Celebrating National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, and June 21, the summer solstice, is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a time for people in Canada to come together and celebrate First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples; a time to reflect on, listen and learn from the diverse experiences and knowledge of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island and recognize their contributions - past and present.

For many Canadians, the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada was - and in some cases still is - unknown due to a history of colonization. This month and day are a time both to reflect on the past and look to the future. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the unique traditions, stories, and talents of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in Canada. Together we can amplify the voices and strengths of Indigenous youth, leaders and communities by highlighting their contributions and showing up to affirm calls for change.

Learn About Right To Play's Indigenous Programs

Community-Led. Culturally-Relevant. Play-Based.

At Right To Play, we strive to foster safe and inclusive spaces where Indigenous children can experience belonging and engage in learning. We partner with more than 70 Indigenous communities to improve access to community-led, culturally relevant, play-based programs that empower First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth to build life skills. We are committed to centering the voices of Elders and Knowledge Keepers, community partners, and youth participants to ensure the work we do is meaningful and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve.

With your support, we can continue to expand our programming, develop sustainable partnerships, and create lasting change so that future generations of children can rise to even greater heights.

How can you celebrate National Indigenous History Month?

Below are some resources to on you can learn more about and honour the history and contributions of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island.

Learning Resources

• Check out our new resource with 3 fun outdoor learning activities to help children and youth connect with the land.
• Familiarize yourself with the traditional land you occupy and treaties in your area by viewing the map on Native Land
• Check out this Indigenous Perspective Education guide from Historica Canada
• Review the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action
• Enjoy Indigenous cinema by exploring the rich online collection of the National Film Board
• Research and attend public Indigenous-led events in your community throughout the month.

Our Commitment to Reconciliation

Right To Play acknowledges the historical legacies of colonization in Canada and the ways colonial systems continue to impact Indigenous peoples today. Many individuals and organizations within Canada benefit from the structures of colonization, including NGOs and we are committed to advancing reconciliation efforts.

We believe that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples have the right to connect with and celebrate their identities, culture, and community, and to be supported in this process. We recognize the struggle that many individuals and communities face in relearning and reclaiming their cultural heritage. We are committed to ensuring that these practices can be revitalized and strengthened for generations to come.