Today, June 21, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day

JUNE 21, 2023 – Today, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, marking the rich heritage, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples worldwide. This annual observance aims to recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis across Canada.

Indigenous Peoples Day provides an opportunity for communities, educational institutions, and organizations to acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by Indigenous peoples. By recognizing their historic and contemporary accomplishments, we can collectively work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society.

The theme of this year's celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day is Celebrating Diversity within Indigenous Peoples and Communities. 

“We value, appreciate and respect our First Nations partners in the work we do every day at Kawartha Conservation,” said Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands. “Whether we’re leading Forest Therapy walks, undertaking stewardship projects, or working in our conservation areas, our connection to the land, is spiritual, physical, social, and cultural.

“Today we celebrate our partners and our relationship with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation,” added Virgoe. “We are stronger together and our connections greater when we respect and honour the incredible knowledge of our friends and neighbours.”

The main objective of Indigenous Peoples Day is to promote awareness and understanding of the complex histories and ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. It serves as a reminder of the resilience demonstrated by Indigenous peoples throughout centuries of colonization, oppression, and marginalization. By shedding light on these experiences, we hope to foster dialogue, empathy, and respect within our society.