Photo: Book Cover, Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese
June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.
It is a month to reflect on Indigenous world views, epistemologies, educational and governance systems, and the impacts they have on economic reconciliation.
Take time to learn about the vast intergenerational knowledge Indigenous peoples have accumulated. Consider that this knowledge is imbedded with over tens of thousands of years of learning the landscapes, water ways, flora and fauna, and imagine how this accumulation of knowledge can spark innovation and creativity in your own world view.
The best way to do that is to listen to First Nations, Inuit and Métis through their own voices, by reading a book, watching a film or video, or listening to music created by Indigenous people.
Here are some resources for a month of learning:
1. Unbroken by Angela Sterritt
3. Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese
4. Potlatch as Pedagogy by Sarah Florence Davidson & Robert Davidson
5. When We Were Alone by David Roberston
6. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. by Bob Joseph
Here are a few ways to be involved:
- Educate yourself on the history of the land where you live, work and play.
- Learn what it means to be an accomplice and participate in allyship from an Indigenous lens.
- Engage with Indigenous businesses and their economies to support growth.
Here is a call to action from Indigenous Tourism BC:
This National Indigenous History Month, we call upon all Canadians to actively seek firsthand experiences, educate themselves about living Indigenous cultures, and find ways to contribute to the wellness of Indigenous families, lands, and communities in BC – not just in June, but throughout the year.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.