National Indigenous History Month
Wednesday, Jun 1, 2022
WHAT is National Indigenous History Month?
In June, we commemorate National Indigenous History Month. During this month, we take time to listen and learn about the rich history as well as recognizing the heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada.
On June 21st, we come together on National Indigenous Peoples Day, to commemorate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Across the country, from coast to coast, there will be numerous celebrations being held to appreciate, listen and learn about the wealth and diversity of Canadian society (Credit: GOV Can website).
WHY do we observe National Indigenous History Month?
CREW Vancouver supports all women in their professional endeavours and continuous education. Throughout the month of June and beyond, CREW Vancouver is committed to listening and providing resources to amplify these teachings.
The Government of Canada is working towards advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nations across Canada. In addition, through the month of June, CREW Vancouver encourages you to look into the following resources for yourself and your organization.
Read more on why it’s important to reflect on the distinct histories of indigenous communities at the Indigenous Corporate Training site.
To start your learning journey, please reference the resources below to get started:
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The Government of Canada’s National Indigenous History Month online resources:
This learning portal provides access to various resources to learn more about Indigenous history, languages, cultures and experiences. This learning material is Indigenous created or co-created. Includes information on UNDRIP, Indigenous history and free downloadable resources through engagement resource kits.
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University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada Course:
Indigenous Canada is a 12-lesson Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) from the Faculty of Native Studies that explores the different histories and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous peoples living in Canada. From an Indigenous perspective, this course explores complex experiences Indigenous peoples face today from a historical and critical perspective highlighting national and local Indigenous-settler relations (Credit: UofA Website).
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Explore the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations:
The British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) is a Provincial Territorial Organization (PTO) representing and advocating for the 203 First Nations in British Columbia (Credit: BCAFN Website). The map linked below provides geographical information into where regional Indigenous communities are located across BC as well as regional features and community descriptions.
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Learn about more ways you can support British Columbia’s Indigenous Communities
Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC) is a non-profit, Stakeholder-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry (Credit: ITBC Website). Explore various training, information resources and educational articles and learn more about how to integrate Indigenous-run businesses into corporate collaborations
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Indigenous Peoples: A Guide to Terminology; Usage Tips & Definitions, Indigenous Corporate Training Inc., 2019
ICT Inc has created an eBook to facilitate workplace discussion on how to navigate respectful and effective Indigenous terminology.
Here are a few suggestions on how you could share this eBook with colleagues and/or visitors to your office:
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print a copy and leave it on the table in your break room
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pin it to a notice board
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post it to your website internet and intranet
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add it to the reading material in your waiting room
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take a copy with you if you are working remotely or visiting a field office
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Discover Indigenous-led Businesses & Suppliers Near You
It’s important to integrate and recognize female-owned indigenous businesses that represent communities that have long been underrepresented. Consider reaching out to local businesses for various corporate needs and find ways for your organization, team, or group to conduct business and improve relationships with Indigenous partners at Indigenous-owned accommodations, experience providers, restaurants, gift shops, and museums in British Columbia.
To explore a list of both local and national Indigenous-led businesses, visit the link below.