June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. 

National Indigenous Peoples Day was announced in 1996 as national Aboriginal Day through a proclamation by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc. The proclamation was signed after consultations with various Indigenous groups. 

This is a day to recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada. June 21 was selected for National Indigenous Peoples Day because of its cultural significance for many Indigenous peoples and communities and because it is the summer solstice, a day on which many Indigenous peoples and communities traditionally celebrate their heritage. 

The day came about after a series of calls for such a celebration. National Indigenous Peoples Day is a time to discover the richness and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultural expressions and stories. There are over 630 First Nations communities in Canada, which represent more than 50 Nations and 50 Indigenous languages. There are 133 First Nations communities in Ontario, 23 per cent of all Indigenous peoples in Canada, representing at least seven major cultural and linguistic groups. 

June is also National Indigenous History Month, which recognizes the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. 

We encourage all members to learn more and take the time to attend Indigenous cultural celebrations and to recognize and celebrate the many contributions of Indigenous peoples.