Animikii is a digital agency that drives social innovation through Indigenous technology. As a recipient of the 2019 Indigenous Business Award, they have a firm grasp of uniting Indigenous traditions with contemporary practices.
So, we turn to these experts to share with us what allies can do on Indigenous People’s Day, being celebrated this year on Monday, June 21. At Animikii, they treat National Indigenous Peoples Day like a statutory holiday so that their team can attend community events that honour and celebrate Indigenous Peoples as resilient, vibrant, and diverse members of society. To prepare for this celebration, they’ve compiled a list of activities that you and your family can do from the comfort of your home.
Research on whose traditional territory your home or work is located, and – if you don’t do it already – make an effort to acknowledge that territory by sharing it on social media.
Support an Indigenous artist in your area by purchasing or sharing their art.
Watch films outlining the journey of Indigenous businesses and First Nations artists.
Read the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and think about how you contribute to protecting or denying these rights.
Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and discuss with your friends and family how you can work towards adhering to all of these Calls.
Listen to Indigenous podcasts. Some suggestions include:
Indigenous Innovators
Teachings in the Air
Media Indigena
Medicine for the Resistance
The Red Road
Warrior Life
Warrior Kids
Unreserved with Falan Johnson
Missing & Murdered: Finding Cleo
The Henceforward
One Dish, One Mic
Métis in Space
Coffee With My Ma
Think Indigenous
and check out the rest of the Indian and Cowboy network.
Watch Indigenous Cinema.
Call your local Friendship Centre and ask if they need any volunteers or donations for programs or events.
Attend virtual events.
Take the #Next150 Challenge – actionable steps to take on your learning journey.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.