National Indigenous Peoples Day 2021

Date

In SD62, schools partake in virtual offerings and/or host a variety of offerings in the month of June to align with the School’s Enhancement Agreement: Na’tsa maht One Mind One Spirit cultural plan and/or the National Indigenous History Month Learn More About National Indigenous History Month (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)

In light of the recent findings at the former Kamloops Residential School let’s keep the conversation going through Reconciliation Reconciliation (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca). The Sooke School District flags continue to fly at half-mast in memory of children sent to Residential School. We invite you to watch and reflect, knowing that our work towards equity and reconciliation continues. Elder Shirley has granted us permission to print and share her poem with anyone. 

What is National Indigenous Day?

National Indigenous Day is a time for all Canadians to recognize the unique heritage, the diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Proclaimed by the Governor General in 1996, National Indigenous Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the unique achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in fields as diverse as agriculture, the environment, business and the arts.

June 21st was chosen for National Indigenous Day because it is also the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day. National Indigenous Peoples Day (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)

This year, in honour of the day, we would like to recognize the shared traditional territories of the Coast Salish, and Nuu-chah-nulth peoples to the West Coast, where we live on the South Island. National Indigenous Day is a phrase we use through culturally responsive education and the work we do with local First Nations daily.           

We recognize those territories of the First Nations, and thank each Nation for welcoming us to the beauty of this land, sea and sky. 

            Thank you                                       English

            Hych’ka                                            Coast Salish

            Kleco Kleco                                     Nuu-chah-nulth

            Gilakasla                                          Kwakwaka’wakw

            Marsee                                             Métis