Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!
Today we recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples on or around June 21st as it holds the cultural significance of the summer solstice.
Here are some ways to celebrate in Airdrie today:
1) If you haven’t already, go give Circle Connections for Reconciliation a follow. This group of folks are a grass roots movement in Airdrie to help anyone who wishes to start learning about Indigenous culture and Truth & Reconciliation, in a gracious and understanding space to learn, understand, and grow.
2) At Nose Creek Park, Circle Connections for Reconciliation has collaborated with Indigenous Elders and voices to bring a celebration right here to our community! The event will include Elders’ blessings and prayers, land acknowledgement, acknowledgement from dignitaries as well as live music and cultural dance performances from a number of First Nations and Métis groups. This event is free to attend. 5:30PM-9PM. I’ll put the link in the comments.
3) Sign up for a free course on Truth and Reconciliation through University of Alberta! The course is offered online through Coursera and is called “Indigenous Canada”. Of note, this year they have updated much of the course content, so it is worth going in again if you’ve already done the course! I’ll put the link in the comments.
4) Consider supporting Indigenous and Métis owned businesses. Whether you’re looking for personal care items like makeup from Cheekbone Beauty or handmade jewellery and gifts from Awak Creeations or Silver & Ivy Beads, you are sure to find something wonderful. Alberta has developed a really gorgeous Indigenous Tourism network that offers authentic Indigenous experiences. I’ll put the link in the comments for the tourism site!
5) Read all 94 recommendations in the Truth and Reconciliation report. I’ll put the link in the comments for this as well.
Enjoy the day everyone! I look forward to seeing you this evening.
#NationalIndigenousPeoplesDay #AirdrieAB #eventsAirdrie #todoAirdrie #TruthandReconciliation #NIPD2024
