June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Every year on this day, people across Canada gather to commemorate Indigenous Peoples. The day honours the culture, heritage, resilience and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people across Canada.  

Many Indigenous groups and communities have been celebrating their beliefs and traditions on the summer solstice, which holds spiritual significance for many communities across the land. The summer solstice is the longest day of the year and takes place every year on or close to June 21.  

Originally called National Aboriginal Day, National Indigenous Peoples Day, was declared in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc. On June 21, 2017, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement to rename this day as National Indigenous Peoples Day. 

To celebrate this day, events are held across the country showcasing traditional indigenous practices and stories. These events are also an opportunity for some people to learn what it’s like to be in Indigenous communities.  

Source: Canada.ca