National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21

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This month is National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day is on June 21st. There are lots of ways to celebrate the diverse cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.

While many powwows have been cancelled this year, some events are going virtual. Ask your parents to search for virtual powwows like the one put on by the Winnipeg Art Gallery in collaboration with Indigenous Music.

You can also listen to stories written by Indigenous authors that appeared in the pages of Chirp and Chickadee.

• Alan Syliboy reads Dream Canoe and Wolverine and Little Thunder.
• Joanne Roberston reads Spring’s Gift.
• Nancy Cooper reads Elder Brother Learns a Lesson (illustrated by Fallon Simard) and How Gwiingwa’age Came to Earth (illustrated by Chief Lady Bird).

Or watch this short film from the National Film Board called The Owl and The Raven: An Inuit Legend.

Let us know how you plan to celebrate in the comments below!

-Mandy, chickadeeblog@owlkids.com

Indigenous History Month

Hi Readers,

June is Indigenous History Month in Canada and June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day. It’s the perfect time to learn more about the histories and culture of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.

A great way to learn about history is by listening to the stories of Indigenous Peoples and by reading books like Spirit Bear: Fishing for Knowledge, Catching Dreams. This book taught me so much!

Another fun way to learn about Indigenous culture is to attend a powwow, where you can watch traditional dances, see handmade regalia, arts and crafts, and try all kinds of different foods. On June 21, be sure to check out this virtual powwow put on by the Winnipeg Art Gallery!

See you at the powwow!

— Jackie, chirp@owlkids.com

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada! It is a day to celebrate the diverse cultures, heritage and amazing achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. There are so many celebrations across Canada where you can celebrate and learn. Check your local listings to find out about how you can celebrate in your area. If you’re in the Ottawa area, try the Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival. It starts today and runs through the weekend with tons of events.

-Mandy, chickadeeblog@owlkids.com