This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs. National Indigenous People's Day takes place every year on June 21. This date was chosen because it falls on the summer solstice.
With everything that has recently come to light regarding the mass graves found at several residential schools out west, we here at DC Automotive Tooling Inc. wanted to share some education resources we found that can help teach about Indigenous people's culture, history and the obstacles they face. Some of these resources may contain material that isn't appropriate for all ages, so please bare that in mind prior to reading.
Courses:
Indigenous Canada
A free 12-lesson online course, offered through the University of Alberta's Faculty of Native Studies that explores Indigenous histories and contemporary issues in Canada.
Books:
A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alicia Elliott
Firewater: How Alcohol is Killing my People (and Yours) by Harold R. Johnson
If I Go Missing by Brianna Jonnie & Nahanni Shingoose
In my own Moccasins by Helen Knott
NDN Coping Mechanisms by Billy-Ray Belcourt
Peace and Good Order by Harold R. Johnson
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga
Speaking Our Truth by Monique Gray Smith
The Education of Augie Merasty by Joseph Auguste Merasty
The North-West is our Mother by Jean Teillet
Treaty Promises, Indian Reality: Life on a Reserve by Harold LeRat