June is National Indigenous History month, an opportunity to learn and celebrate the cultures, traditions, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.

Designated by the House of Commons in 2009, National Indigenous History month creates space to honour the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous people have lived on this land since time immemorial and Indigenous contributions continue to shape Canada today.

For 2024 the Government of Canada is highlighting themes and specific aspects of Indigenous history, cultures and perspectives:
June 1 to 9: Environment, traditional knowledge and territory
June 10 to 16: Children and youth
June 17 to 23: Languages, cultures and arts
June 24 to 30: Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

The Office of the Treaty Commissioner encourages people to use National Indigenous History month to start (or continue) their reconciliation journey by furthering their knowledge. The best way to do this is hearing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis voices. 

Read a book, watch a film, or listen to music created by Indigenous people.

Don’t know where to start? Try these
Office of the Treaty Commissioner Resource Page and Recommended Reads
Be A ConnectR (a project by Reconciliation Saskatoon)
2024 National Indigenous History Month: A thematic Learning Series (from the Halifax Public Libraries)
National Indigenous History Month In Canada (Government of Canada)
TRC Final report and Calls to Action (National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Commission)
Reclaiming Power and Place and additional publications (National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls)

While on your learning journey, please take care of your mental health. These resources contain topics that may be distressing to some readers. If you need help, please note there are Indigenous mental health services available.

The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls can contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.