(Toronto, June 1, 2020) Today, Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald is marking the beginning of National Indigenous History Month. After continued calls by First Nations and Indigenous Peoples in Canada, in 2009, the House of Commons unanimously voted to designate June as National Indigenous History Month.

“National Indigenous History Month is a time to honour the contributions, sacrifices and advancements Indigenous Peoples’ have made throughout the creation of the country that is now called ‘Canada.’ This is also a time to reflect and remember those we have lost in the fight for acknowledgement of our Inherent, Treaty and Human Rights.

This is also a time to celebrate and share our heritage, cultures, languages, songs and dance of the many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people across this land. By sharing our history and traditions with Settler-Canadians, we develop shared respect and bond over this land that we now share.

I now invite you to take the time to learn more about our true shared history and the many Indigenous people and organizations throughout Canada that have and are bringing awareness to ensure our culture thrives, our people and ways are protected, and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada are respected.

While this is a time for celebration, we must also remember that Canada still has a long way to go on the path to reconciliation. I wish to remind everyone that tomorrow, June 2 marks the 5th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report. All of us must continue to push for the full implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Not only those but also the 231 recommendations as set out in the National Inquiry’s Final Report, Reclaiming Power and Place. We will continue to march for justice for the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island.

Now, let us, together, mark this National Indigenous History Month and use this opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. While this year, we will be celebrating differently, due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic, I encourage all Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to participate in the many virtual activities that will be taking place throughout the month. We are in this together.

On behalf of the Chiefs of Ontario, I would like to wish everyone a happy National Indigenous History Month!”

Ninanaskamon!

Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald

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The Chiefs of Ontario is a political forum and a secretariat for collective decision making, action, and advocacy for the 133 First Nation communities located within the boundaries of the province of Ontario, Canada. Follow the Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook or Twitter @ChiefsOfOntario.

Chiefs of Ontario – Media Contact:
Genna Benson
Communications Officer
Telephone: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org