June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to deepen our understanding of history, diverse cultures, and the many notable contributions of the Indigenous community. With the recent news of the 215 children remains discovered at Kamloops residential school we’re reminded of the historical tragedies that have a lasting impact on Indigenous communities every day. It is important to take this opportunity to learn and reflect on the pivotal role Indigenous communities hold in enriching Canada. Below are some ways you can show support and educate yourself on the significance of National Indigenous History Month.
Local Indigenous-owned businesses
Cheekbone Beauty is a Canadian, Indigenous-owned beauty brand, known for our Warrior Women Liquid Lipsticks. Cheekbone beauty is based in St. Catharines and can be purchased on their website.
https://www.cheekbonebeauty.com/
Tea-n-Bannock restaurant in Toronto serves Native to this Land: Bison, Elk, Arctic Char, Trout, Bannock, Fry-bread, Labrador Tea, Cedar Tea.
https://teanbannock.ca/
Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Upper Canada Native Art Gallery specializes in Inuit and Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) art and unique and exquisite giftware celebrating and promoting Canadian Native Artisans.
https://www.uppercanadanativeart.com/
The Aboriginal Printing Corporation is the largest 100% owned certified Aboriginal Printer in Canada. Aboriginal Printing Corporation is located in the GTA and is a full-service print provider that has rooted itself in a long tradition of high-quality print services.
http://www.aboriginalprinting.com/
Events to Attend This June
Niagara Parks will celebrate National Indigenous History month with three special presentations on Indigenous history, art and culture, and the connection with the Niagara Parkway.
educational resources
AFN toolkit: https://education.afn.ca/afntoolkit/
CSPS Territorial Acknowledgement: https://www.csps-efpc.gc.ca/tools/jobaids/terr-acknowledgement-eng.aspx
IKWC virtual library: http://www.ikwcvl.org/
Indigenous Canada online course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/indigenous-canada
Educational toolkit: http://education.historicacanada.ca/en/tools/493?c=18
Podcasts
Ahkameyimok Podcast with National Chief Perry Bellegarde: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/ahkameyimok-podcast-with-national-chief-perry-bellegarde/id1507212458Where to donate
Water First: https://waterfirst.ngo/donate/
HIP (Honouring Indigenous Peoples) Charitable Corporation: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/HIP/
Native Women's Association Canada: https://www.nwac.ca/
Canadian Roots Exchange: https://canadianroots.ca/
Art for Aid Project: https://www.artforaid.ca/
First Nations Child and Family Caring Society: https://fncaringsociety.com/donate
local articles
Niagara Review: https://www.niagarafallsreview.ca/life/2021/06/03/niagara-parks-hosting-national-indigenous-month-speaker-series.html
The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of his or her Residential school experience. National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419