Every year, throughout the month of June, Canadians take the time to acknowledge and recognize the rich heritage, history, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. It provides an opportunity for our members to learn and take the time to reflect on their individual role in reconciliation. We have gathered a list of meaningful resources for members to do during June:
- Read the National Bestseller “21 Things you may not know about the Indian Act” by Bob Joseph, president of Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. and hereditary chief of the Gayaxala clan. Be sure to check out our Q&A with Bob Joseph.
- Read ‘Weaving Two Worlds’ by Christy Smith and Michael McPhie, published in month… which provides tools for navigating your role in reconciliation. Be sure to check out our recent interview with Christy.
- Listen to “This Place”, a CBC podcast that was adapted from a popular comic book. Hosted by Rosanna Deerchild, the series explores 150 years of Indigenous resistance and resilience.
- Support the The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund. The charity aims to shine a light on Indigenous reconciliation and the history of residential schools in Canada. For a complete list of charities serving Indigenous Peoples culture, health and wellbeing in BC and across Canada, go to Canada Helps.
- Visit a Cultural Centre or Heritage Site in BC to explore the preservation of Indigenous culture from an Indigenous perspective. Cultural Centres in BC include the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, the Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos and the Tuckkwiowhum Village in Boston Bar. Learn more.
- Use AME’s Early Engagement Planning Tool. You can also read the AME Indigenous Engagement Guidebook, sponsored by Seabridge Gold.
- Familiarize yourself with the Moose Hide campaign – an Indigenous-led grassroots movement of men, boys and all Canadians standing up to end violence against women and children.
We do hope this list of ideas has served as some great inspiration on ways to make June a little more meaningful and allows you to listen, learn and reflect. Is there anything in this list that you would like to see? Do you know any local artists or charities? We would love to hear your suggestions, please email [email protected].
For more information on what AME is doing, check out our Indigenous Relations page.
